Life in the diabetes fast lane

By Sheree Hoddinett

When I first heard the words “your blood sugar level is too high, it looks like you have diabetes”, I really had no idea what it all meant.  

What I do know is it’s not a sentence anyone wants to hear, but for more than 1.9 million Australians living with a form of diabetes, it’s a harsh reality. I am one of those 1.9 million Australians. I was diagnosed in 2013 (at the same time I found out I was about to become a mum for the first time and no it wasn’t gestational diabetes. Yes, I get asked that question a lot!) and have been navigating the journey that is Type 1 diabetes ever since.  

My life consisted of learning about needles, testing blood sugar levels, counting carbs (carbohydrates) and discovering what I could and probably shouldn’t eat, yes I can still have cake and chocolate! 

One of the biggest hurdles to overcome is the misconceptions behind the different types of diabetes and what can cause them. Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). There are several types, each with unique causes and management needs.  

• Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes need insulin to survive. This can be administered either via needles or an insulin pump.  

• Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It is often linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity and weight, but genetics also play a role.  

• Gestational diabetes can develop during pregnancy and usually resolves after birth, but it increases the risk of the mother developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.  

• Some people may develop ‘other’ diabetes because of a different health condition, disease or even medication. This type of ‘other’ diabetes may be a temporary condition, but it can also be permanent.  

World Diabetes Day, held annually on November 14, is the largest global awareness campaign dedicated to diabetes. Established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organisation, the date marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin with Charles Best in 1921. The day serves as a reminder of the growing impact of diabetes worldwide, while also promoting better education, prevention and management strategies. 

This year, communities around the world will participate in awareness events, screenings and educational activities. The campaign also emphasises reducing stigma, supporting those living with diabetes and encouraging governments to improve healthcare systems. On November 14, the blue circle, the global symbol for diabetes, reminds us of the collective responsibility to fight this condition together. 

While I’m not one to dwell too much on the condition itself because it’s not something I did or can change, it is certainly a life changing illness and one that I wouldn’t wish on anyone.  

….. 

World Diabetes Day 

Friday 14 November  

The 2025 theme is Diabetes and Wellbeing 

Visit worlddiabetesday.org