Diabetes Wellness Summer 2017

wellness

SUMMER 2017

DIABETES

DIABETES NEW ZEALAND | DIABETES.ORG.NZ

GESTATIONAL DIABETES • M IS FOR MOTIVATION • KNOW THE DIFFERENCE • #1 KITS FOR KIDS “I REVERSED MY T2 DIABETES” • HEALTHY HOLIDAYS • PLENTIFUL PUMPKINS • STRONGER TOGETHER

WOMAN OF INFLUENCE Denise L’EstrangeCorbet shares her family’s diabetes story

DIABETES ACTION MONTH LET’S DO IT!

FOOT & HEEL BALM

Suitable for diabetics.

Bio-organics Glycemix Foot & Heel Balm hydrates and smoothes the cracked skin of heels, providing immediate relief with results within 24 hours.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Sanofi Consumer Healthcare, Auckland.

Bio-organics Glycemix™ Neuropad® Diabetic Foot Test Patch Easy to use 10 minute self test for early detection of diabetic foot syndrome.

2 patches – one for each foot.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. This device may not be suitable for every person with diabetes, seek the advice of your healthcare professional. Use of Neuropad does not replace the need for patient vigilance for the early signs of diabetic foot neuropathy and regular consultation with their healthcare professional. A normal result does not preclude diabetic foot syndrome or foot neuropathy. Common signs of diabetic foot neuropathy include numbness, reduced pain, ability to sense temperature range, tingling or burning sensation, sharp pains or cramps, increased touch sensitivity, muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, loss of balance, ulcers or foot deformity. Consult your doctor if you experience any of these signs even in the event of a normal test result. Sanofi Consumer Healthcare, Auckland 0800 445 365. TAPS PP9144.

ONLY IN UNICHEM AND LIFE PHARMACIES

CHCANZ.BORG.17.01.0070

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Contents SUMMER 2017

24

VOLUME 29 | NO 4

4 EDITORIAL

32

34

20 BEYOND TYPE 1: Bike across America

6 UPFRONT: Grocery Charity Ball 8 COVER: Denise L’Estrange-Corbet’s diabetes journey

COVER: DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET, COURTESY OF NEXT MAGAZINE

10 DIABETES ACTION MONTH: Key themes and events

20

21 DIABETES ACTION MONTH: What’s the difference infographic 22 RESEARCH: Healthier Lives 24 EAT: Plan for happier holidays

12 GESTATIONAL DIABETES: Rachel’s story

26 CARE: Tackle diabetes action plan

14 GESTATIONAL DIABETES: Big baby risk + take control

28 DIG: A preference for pumpkins + recipe

16 WOMEN & DIABETES: “I reversed my T2 symptoms” 18 WOMEN & DIABETES: Together, we are stronger

30 COMMUNITY: Trevor’s diabetes goals 31 COMMUNITY: Diabetes NZ’s branch directory 32 MOVE: M is for Motivation

34 EAT: Summer in a bowl 36 COMMUNITY: Tour de France fundraiser 37 OBITUARY: John Bettany 38 RUBY’S WORLD: Kick fear to the kerb

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Editorial

The International Diabetes Federation’s theme for World Diabetes Day 2017 is Women in Diabetes – our right to a healthy future.

When I think of the women I know “in diabetes” the words that come to mind are strong, passionate, empowered and empathetic. These women are the leaders in our community – whether it’s leading Diabetes New Zealand, branches, research or community healthcare services. Many of them are also manging the demands of living with diabetes themselves. I am also reminded of another group of women “in diabetes”. They are the carers: the women who 24/7, are caring for a child with type 1 diabetes, or a spouse, parent, sibling or friend with prediabetes, type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Across the world many women with diabetes experience poor levels of access to diagnosis, treatment and care services, particularly in developing countries. This results in poor quality of life and premature death and has significant impacts on the children and families of those women.

There are three key messages behind the IDF’s Women in Diabetes campaign: • All women with diabetes require affordable and equitable access to care and education to better manage their diabetes and improve their health outcomes.

• Pregnant women require improved access to screening, care and education to achieve positive health outcomes for mother and child.

• Women and girls are key agents in the adoption of healthy lifestyles to improve the health and wellbeing of future generations.

Despite Aotearoa being a first world country with a comprehensive public health care system, these three messages have relevance in the New Zealand context. There are women with diabetes, and pregnant women experiencing gestational diabetes, who every day face multiple challenges accessing health care services and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These women are the mothers, sisters, spouses, and grandmothers raising the next generation of New Zealanders, all of whom have a right to a healthy future.

There are some fantastic stories in this issue of the magazine written by and about some of the women I have described above.

I hope you will be informed and inspired by them, as I have.

I encourage you to join with Diabetes NZ on Tuesday 14 November, World Diabetes Day, to promote the key messages that underlie the theme of Women in Diabetes – our right to a healthy future.

DEB CONNOR

President, Diabetes New Zealand

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

Diabetes New Zealand is a national charity that provides trusted leadership, information, advocacy and support to people with diabetes, their families, and those at risk.

Our mission is to provide support for all New Zealanders with diabetes, or at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, to live full and active lives.

We have a network of branches across the country that offer diabetes information and support in their local communities.

Join today at www.diabetes.org.nz

DIABETES NEW ZEALAND Patrons Lady Beattie and Sir Eion Edgar President Deb Connor Chief executive Steve Crew Diabetes New Zealand Inc. National Office Level 7, 15 Murphy Street Thorndon, Wellington 6144 Postal address PO Box 12 441, Wellington 6144 Telephone 04 499 7145 Freephone 0800 342 238 Fax 04 499 7146 Email admin@diabetes.org.nz Web diabetes.org.nz Facebook facebook.com/diabetesnz Twitter twitter.com/diabetes_nz

DIABETES WELLNESS MAGAZINE Editor Caroline Wood editor@diabetes.org.nz Publisher Diabetes New Zealand Production & distribution Rose Miller, Kraftwork Magazine delivery address changes Freepost Diabetes NZ, PO Box 12 441, Wellington 6144 Telephone 0800 342 238 Email admin@diabetes.org.nz Back issues issuu.com/diabetesnewzealand ISSN 1176-4406

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP Business Development Coordinator Jo Chapman jo@diabetes.org.nz or +64 21 852 054

Download the Diabetes Wellness media kit: http://bit.ly/2uOYJ3p Disclaimer: Every effort is made to ensure accuracy, but Diabetes NZ accepts no liability for errors of fact or opinion.

Information in this publication is not intended to replace advice by your health professional. Editorial and advertising material do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or Diabetes NZ. Advertising in Diabetes Wellness does not constitute endorsement of any product. Diabetes NZ holds the copyright of all editorial. No article, in whole or in part, should be reprinted without permission of the Editor.

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Upfront

Charity ball raises $200,000 for diabetes Diabetes NZ’s business development coordinator Jo Chapman rounds up the highlights of the 2017 Grocery Charity Ball.

It was a night of glitz and glamour, layered with fine dining, entertainment and dancing, topped off with a serious amount of fundraising. Last year Diabetes New Zealand received the wonderful news from the Grocery Charity Ball trustees that we had been chosen to be the sole beneficiary of the Ball in September 2017. This kicked off a year of hard work to make the most of this amazing opportunity.

The host for the night was Mark Sainsbury, there as a parent of a son with type 1 diabetes, who gave his generous support throughout the evening. Fourteen-year-old Madeleine Lord, representing

children and teenagers living with type 1 diabetes, shared her inspiring story of diagnosis at the age of seven. She set the theme for the night: young people living with diabetes.

The guests were entertained by the Koi Boys before the serious business of the live auction occurred: a selection of 10 unique prizes went under the hammer. The Bachelor New Zealand star Art Green and fashion designer Denise L’EstrangeCorbet joined the auctioneer on stage to give a boost to the bidding.

Denise indicated that she wouldn’t get out of bed for less than $11,000, and 10 lucky winners paid that much, so they could have afternoon tea with Denise at the Langham Hotel in Auckland, with a host of styling tips for all the women.

The room was a buzz of excitement as hundreds of ice cubes were delivered to those who had purchased a raffle ticket for one exquisite prize. Diamonds truly are

a girl’s best friend, as one lucky lady won a 1.07 carat whopper (valued at $10,500), that was kindly donated by Michael Hill Jewellers.

Our gratitude goes to the trustees of the Grocery Charity Ball. The donation of more than $200,000 from this event will help provide a #1 pack to all newly diagnosed children up to the age of 16 years. The #1 pack will include information, useful resources and an educational soft toy called Jerry the Bear. By taking care of Jerry’s diabetes, children (and parents) can gain handson practice in counting carbs, monitoring Jerry’s blood sugar, and administering insulin. The first rollout of the #1 pack will start this November to children aged between four and 10. The Grocery Ball funds will also go towards expanding access to our Take Control Toolkit by turning it into a smartphone app (see p10).

Diabetes NZ would like to acknowledge the support we received from the businesses that gave generously to the silent auction and everyone else that made the evening such a success: Absolute Beauty Workshop; Apicare; Art Green; Auckland Bridge Climb & Bungy; Be My Guest Waiheke; Beanbags and Beyond; Brett McGregor; Breville; Britz; Brother International (NZ); Butterfly Creek; Club Physical; Countdown; Croucher Brewing; Delmaine Fine Foods; Denise L’Estrange-Corbet; Elizabeth Arden; Federation; Fitbit; Giltrap Audi; Glenbrook Vintage Railway; Grove Mitre 10 Onehunga; Hampton Downs; Hilton Taupo; Hip Group; Hoyts; Kit Parera; Lions Clubs New Zealand; Loveblock Wines; Lululemon; Manukau Hyundai; Madeleine Lord; Mark Sainsbury; Maungatautari Trust; Michael Hill Jewellers; Micro Scooters; Mills Reef Winery; Museum Hotel Wellington; My Food Bag; Ngai Tahu Tourism; Oh Natural; Pita Pit NZ; Rocpac International; Simunovich Olive Estate; Sir Eion Edgar; Sir Graham Henry; Sir Peter Leitch; Sir Ralph Norris; Sky Television; Sky Tower; Skyline Rotorua; Spark Arena; Spookers; Stony Ridge Vineyard; Studio 81; Suna Pilates; The Great Journeys of NZ; The Langham; The Wine Portfolio; Timeless Images Photography; Tongariro Fishing Guide; Tree Adventures; Vodafone Warriors; Warbirds over Wanaka; Weta Studio Tours; Whoa! Studios.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

Cover story

Straight-talking co-founder of WORLD fashion brand Denise L’Estrange-Corbet is an Ambassador for Diabetes Auckland. Here she shares a personal diabetes story – recalling the day her teenage daughter Pebbles was diagnosed with T1.

ONE HOT SUMMER M

y first job straight out of school, 40 years ago, was working for an international company at their London head office.

Soon after I joined, another girl started, Karen, who had seriously flicked back Farrah Fawcett-type hair wings, and a much older boyfriend. She also told us she had type 1 diabetes.

This didn’t mean that much to me, except that when she took out this huge syringe and needle to inject herself I would cringe.

I was 17, and never thought for a minute that diabetes would ever affect me, but it reared its head in the summer of 2008, when my 19-year-old daughter was diagnosed with it.

It was a very hot summer, and Pebbles was drinking a lot of water, which I did not find unusual considering the heat.

She told me she thought she had type 1 diabetes. I let out a sort of huff, that meant ‘Don’t be ridiculous’.

She went to the doctor for a

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

test, as she is of the computer generation, the ones that look symptoms up online, as opposed to going through books in the library.

Results came back: no diabetes.

But the thirst continued, and the appetite increased to biblical proportions. Back to the doctor, tests taken, results back, no diabetes.

Her weight started plummeting.

She came into the lounge one evening where her father and I were watching TV. She wore a tank top and jeans, which she was holding up at the waist to stop them from falling down.

I gasped – I did not realise how emaciated she had become.

Friends asked if she was anorexic or bulimic. I said most definitely not, as she was eating us out of house and home quite literally, but what teenagers don’t?

I knew she wasn’t bulimic, as I would go into the bathroom after her to see if I could smell anything. I told friends she

thought she had diabetes, but the tests proved negative. Her blood sugar was between 8 and 9, which was average.

We drove to Wellington for a weekend with a friend of hers, and stopped at a gas station to get fuel. She bought another 1.5L bottle of water, and before we had left the gas station, she had drunk it all. As I pulled out, she asked if we could go back for more water, I said ‘no, you have just drunk a whole bottle’, and thought she was just playing up in front of her friend.

We had a row, she got out of the car when I stopped in traffic and said she would walk. I put this down to petulant teenage behaviour.

Back to Auckland, back to the doctor. This time he called me at work. Her blood sugar was 38 – she was in an ambulance on her way to Auckland Hospital.

When I arrived, she cried and said, ‘I told you I had diabetes’.

She did. But, when the doctors tell you that she didn’t, what was

I to think? She has never forgiven me for this, for not believing her.

Pebbles has been in and out of hospital since then. In the intensive care unit so many times, touch and go, when she has gone into a diabetic coma from not taking her insulin, from being like all teenagers think they are: invincible.

When I would ask her if she had taken her insulin, the response would be ‘What do you care?’

It has been hard, so bloody hard. I take full responsibility for not believing her, and it has cost a lot in terms of our relationship.

Nine years on, it is no easier.

She resents the fact she has it, ‘Why me?’ I don’t know, I can’t answer that. I would swap with her in a heartbeat if I could.

I often blame myself. Did I do something wrong? She was brought up in a healthy home, with no fizzy drinks, fast food or junk, so why her? There is no reason – it’s not caused by a bad diet, it’s an autoimmune disorder.

Life sometimes just deals you a

cruel blow, and they do not come much crueller than diabetes type 1.

Unlike so many other illnesses today, diabetes has no cure.

Everything else seems to have a cure, so why not this? You can get a new heart, liver, kidneys, but not a pancreas, which is the size of your fingernail.

I hope, with all my heart, that one day there will be. To put an end to the relentless five-times-a day injections into the stomach, until the skin scars and it is too hard, and you have to find another spot.

We have to educate the public about type 1 diabetes. So many people have said to me how surprised they are that she has it, as she is so slim, and I have to explain it is quite different from type 2 diabetes.

When will some genius medic come up with a tablet to replace the archaic needle in the interim of a cure?

Please hope it is sooner than another 40 years.

WOMAN OF INFLUENCE Denise L’Estrange-Corbet is co-founder of WORLD, one of New Zealand’s best known fashion brands which has shown on the catwalks of London, Paris, Singapore, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Sydney and New Zealand.

Outspoken, and often sought for her opinion from fashion to politics and everything in between, Denise was awarded the Westpac 2017 Women of Influence Award for arts and culture in September.

She was the first female fashion designer to receive a New Zealand Order of Merit (formerly an MBE) in 2002 and is also a published author.

Denise is an Ambassador for Diabetes Auckland and also supports a number of other charities, including IHC, the Mental Health Foundation, The Starship Foundation and The Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation.

Denise’s Grocery Ball prize – high tea for 10 at the Langham Hotel – raised more than $11,000 for Diabetes NZ, and her speech at the event earlier this year brought many in the audience to tears.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Diabetes Action Month

Olivia Deadman rounds up the highlights of this year’s Diabetes Action Month, from 1–30 November 2017

DIABETES DIFFERENCES

D

iabetes Action Month is an important annual campaign that raises awareness among New Zealanders that diabetes is a health issue that affects many people.

This year, the theme is Know the Difference and the campaign will help counter common misconceptions around diabetes. Many people think of diabetes being type 2, but Diabetes NZ also wants to draw attention to people living with type 1, and women who develop gestational diabetes.

It will be releasing two new posters in November. Raising awareness about type 1 vs type 2 diabetes will be the focus of the Know The Difference poster helping to clear up confusion about the two very different conditions. It will also encourage people to take action during Diabetes Action Month, if they notice symptoms of diabetes in themselves, their family or friends.

The second is a Warning Signs poster about type 1 diabetes. This will be sent to all GP surgeries as part of a diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) campaign pack, in association with Beyond Type 1, to raise awareness of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes among doctors and parents.

One of the campaign’s aims is to reduce the risk of someone with undiagnosed diabetes developing

DKA, a potentially life-threatening complication caused by the body running out of insulin. Symptoms include: abdominal pain, vomiting, dehydration, laboured breathing and confusion.

WORLD DIABETES DAY

The theme for World Diabetes Day on November 14 is Women and Diabetes.

Diabetes NZ will be sharing women’s stories about the integral role they play in supporting those with diabetes and successfully managing their own conditions (see pp16-20 for eight inspiring case studies). Diabetes NZ will also be working to raise awareness about gestational diabetes.

See overleaf for Rachel’s story.

JERRY THE BEAR

One of the highlights of Diabetes Action Month will be the introduction of Jerry the Bear as part of the new #1 kit – a care package for children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

We hope this very special teddy helps to comfort, educate and empower children who have diabetes.

The idea behind Jerry the Bear is that children can check his blood sugar, feed him their own virtual food selection (with carb counts) and then administer insulin for those carbs – all through augmented-reality play with a free smartphone app.

Diabetes NZ’s Director of Youth Ruby McGill with Jerry the Bear, part of Diabetes NZ’s new #1 kit for children.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

This year Diabetes Action Month is all about raising awareness about the different types of diabetes.

Emily Wilson

Jerry has eight injection sites and a sticker to attach a virtual pump site.

His diabetes tools: glucometer, insulin pen, and pump are digital and can be accessed through the app.

Children work through nine stories about how Jerry and his friends prepare for a sporting event. They must complete a series of tasks in each of the 21 segments before gaining access to the next. Jerry the Bear is a teaching tool as well as a source of comfort.

Keep an eye out for Emily Wilson (pictured above), the International Diabetes Federation’s youth ambassador for New Zealand during November. She and Jerry the Bear are heading off on a big adventure across New Zealand.

Emily is a 26-year-old multisport athlete and avid outdoor enthusiast from Wanaka who has type 1 diabetes.

She is raising money for diabetes

STAY IN TOUCH: To find out more about what’s

happening this Diabetes Action Month and to get involved, visit www.diabetes.org.nz or check out Diabetes NZ’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/diabetesnz

Shortland Street joined the MoveMeant last year

during her trip. To sponsor her go to Givealittle at https://wilem526. wixsite.com/jerrystour FITBIT FRIDAYS

As part of Diabetes Action Month, Diabetes NZ has partnered with Fitbit to present Fitbit Fridays – a social media initiative to encourage people to Join The MoveMeant and get moving.

On FitBit Fridays, people can share information, actions and healthy choices on their own Facebook or Instagram page using the hashtag #fitbitfriday. On each of the four Fridays in November, one lucky person who participates in FitBit Friday will win a brand new Fitbit.

Anyone can take part in FitBit Fridays to support those living with diabetes.

The Take Control Toolkit is now available as a smartphone app

TAKE CONTROL TOOLKIT APP

Diabetes NZ launched the popular Take Control Toolkit during last year’s Diabetes Action Month.

Now it’s available in a handy app that makes the toolkit accessible on smartphones.

The Take Control Toolkit includes more than 60 online materials in downloadable print or video formats that Diabetes NZ members anywhere in the country can access. The kit covers everything to help people manage their diabetes, from reading food labels to foot care.

The Take Control Toolkit is a free resource, available from the App Store and Google Play.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Gestational diabetes

IT HAPPENED TO ME If you have gestational diabetes during pregnancy there’s a high risk you could develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years.

By Caroline Wood.

Rachel with Isabella (left and inset), Sebastian and Ruby.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

R

achel Russ was 28 weeks pregnant with her first child when her midwife said the baby was “quite big”. A simple glucose test later and Rachel received the surprise news that she had gestational diabetes and her ante-natal care would have to be transferred to

a specialist high-risk pregnancy team at Lower Hutt Hospital, in Wellington.

The doctors and nurses there looked after her brilliantly, she says, but her high blood sugar levels meant that she needed to go straight onto insulin, and she had to take two different kinds daily.

“It was a shock, I didn’t really know anything about gestational diabetes but the main priority was to make certain my baby’s health was OK. I didn’t think of it too much in terms of the future and what it would mean for my own health,” explains Rachel, who works in human resources for Transpower.

Her daughter Isabella arrived safely after an emergency caesarean at Hutt Hospital in 2007. Rachel’s blood sugar levels returned to normal following the birth so she could stop taking insulin.

Rachel got on with her life – she was busy looking after her new baby. But, like many first-time mums, she put her family first before her own health. She wasn’t living a particularly unhealthy lifestyle but making time for regular exercise and healthier eating came last in a long list of other priorities.

Two years later Rachel went to see her GP for a routine follow-up appointment. She was disappointed when blood tests came back showing she had developed type 2 diabetes. She was 38 years old and hadn’t been feeling unwell.

The following year Rachel had her daughter, Ruby, who is now six and then in 2013, a son, Sebastian.

All of her babies were large – over nine pounds – but healthy and there were no pregnancy complications related to her gestational diabetes.

Fast forward to 2017 and Rachel is now 45. She takes insulin to control

her blood sugar levels but sometimes struggles to keep on top of her diabetes care while balancing the needs of work and a busy family life.

“I was finding it very frustrating taking insulin. I was having spikes with certain foods but there was no consistency and I was wondering what I was doing wrong.

“But recently I took part in Steptember, where you take 10,000 steps a day for a month, so I’ve been more active. I’ve also been trying to reduce my carbs and I’m feeling the best I’ve ever been. I’m starting to feel more positive about having some control over my [blood sugar] readings.”

Diabetes runs in Rachel’s immediate family so her genes put her at higher risk of developing the condition. Her mother and father both had type 2 diabetes in their 60s.

And her granny also had diabetes.

Rachel’s brother was a big baby – 10lb – but her mum wasn’t warned that she might go on to develop type 2 diabetes (see our story overleaf). Thankfully doctors test regularly for gestational diabetes these days, and they are more aware of the long-term risks of having a large baby.

Rachel is telling her story as part of Diabetes Action Month in the hope it will raise awareness about gestational diabetes and help other women and their partners understand the risks.

She advises: “Make sure you ask the doctors and nurses the right questions, what does it mean long-term for your health and for the health of your babies?

“Don’t put off the things you can do to reduce your risk, like eating healthily and getting more exercise. Put yourself first rather than last.

“I look back and ask myself if there was anything I would have done differently after having gestational diabetes? I’d probably say that I should have tried harder to make lifestyle changes. But I was a new mum and I wasn’t aware of the long-term health implications of having this condition.”

What is gestational (pregnancy) diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is when a woman develops diabetes during pregnancy. They’ve never had diabetes before, and it goes away after the birth.

Unfortunately having gestational diabetes means a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes in later life. The risk is higher if women have pregnancy diabetes and any of the following risk factors: •

Overweight

•

High blood glucose

•

Unhealthy cholesterol

•

High blood pressure

•

Smoking

•

Sedentary

•

Unhealthy eating

Gestational diabetes (GD) is a severe and neglected threat to maternal and child health. Many women with GD experience pregnancy-related complications including high blood pressure, large birthweight babies and obstructed labour.

One in two women with gestational diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within five to 10 years after delivery.

Source: International Diabetes Federation.

Big baby risk, see overleaf >>

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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BIG BABY RISK Women have a higher than average risk of developing type 2 diabetes in later life if they have given birth to a baby that weighs more than 9lb (4kg). Jo Chapman tells her story here in the hope it will help raise awareness and encourage other mums in a similar situation to get regular diabetes checks.

Jo Chapman with her 4.7kg bump and baby girl Ericka on arrival.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

I believe basic communication about the risks of having a big baby could be improved dramatically in hospitals and GP surgeries. People need to know there is an increased risk of the mother developing type 2 diabetes.

D

uring my pregnancy I gained over 21kg. I admit my eating was not always that of a saint, I was turned off most food in the first trimester and then acquired a craving for all things kumara! I have a degree in sports science and am a trained personal trainer, sports therapist and track runner, so I had the knowledge to keep myself and my baby healthy throughout the pregnancy.

I had to stop track training as I was returning to exercise from a long injury when I found out I was pregnant. So my go-to exercise during pregnancy was walking twice a day, plus walking to the supermarket and back with my 5kg plus bags of groceries.

My baby was big from my first scan and some members of the medical profession made me feel ashamed for having such a large baby. I was constantly questioned about my dates and was left feeling almost bullied about her size. One sonographer made a hurtful comment that my baby had a very large tummy which was delivered as “who ate all the Christmas pudding?”

I had tests for gestational diabetes, but these came back ok.

Baby arrived almost two weeks late.

At my last scan they estimated she could be 5kg. The sonographer was in a hurry to complete the scan, I was the last of the day. She told me my baby had a very large tummy and short legs.

I went home telling hubby I hated him and we were going to have a dwarf sumo wrestler! Then I hit up Dr Google on the internet and stupidly read all the things that could be wrong with my baby and her overlarge tummy.

No one ever asked me about my husband’s ethnicity or biological makeup, or that of our family. Both our dads are over 6ft tall, and we both have brothers who are 6.3ft tall.

When Ericka arrived her tummy wasn’t the extreme size I had been

worried about, she was 60cm long with very long legs, and she was making the best of the room she had.

We had lots of visits from other medical experts, who wanted to have my baby girl enrolled into a study for big babies and the long-term effects. I again was made to feel like I’d done something wrong, which of course I hadn’t.

Not once did I get asked about my health. No-one told me I was now at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

This never happened during the five days I was in hospital or the following eight weeks under the care of a midwife.

About 16 months later, I started working for Diabetes NZ, and read the Know your Risk pamphlet and realised that I was at high risk of developing diabetes. I’d grown a ‘big’ baby – and that would impact on my health forever.

In terms of my health, I now have the knowledge that I’m at risk of developing diabetes in the future. And the outcome may be due to the lifestyle choices I make about diet and being physically active. I’m grateful for this knowledge.

I believe basic communication about the risks of having a big baby could be improved dramatically in hospitals and GP surgeries. People need to know there is an increased risk of the mother developing type 2 diabetes.

If one person shares their story and helps another mother out, then we have the beginning of a change. Knowledge is key. I now know there are things you can do to take control of your health destiny.

You can download the Know Your Risk pamphlet at www.diabetes.org.nz

TAKE CONTROL Here are some tips to lower the risk of developing type 2 if you develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy or give birth to a large (over 9lb or 4kg) baby.

LOSE WEIGHT. Moving more eg. by walking 10,000 steps every day can help shed those pounds.

Just losing a couple of kilos can help you prevent type 2 diabetes.

MAKE HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES. Follow the Mediterranean diet, fill up with healthy fresh vegetables, fruit and whole grains. Limit fat and watch your portion sizes. Healthy eating habits can go a long way in preventing diabetes and other health problems.

STAY ACTIVE. Regular exercise can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Plus it can help you lose weight, manage stress, and feel better.

BREASTFEED. If you can, breastfeed your baby.

Breastfeeding can provide both short and long-term benefits to you and your baby.

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR. Be sure to tell your health care providers that you’ve had gestational diabetes. Know your numbers (for cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose).

GET TESTED. If you had gestational diabetes, you should be tested for diabetes 6–12 weeks after you give birth and at least every three years after that.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

15

Women and diabetes

A major lifestyle change saw Julie Allan turn her health around.

F

I REVERSED MY T2 SYMPTOMS 16

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

ive years ago, my doctor sent me for a range of blood tests including one that screened for diabetes. My blood sugar level was 61, I was overweight and my blood pressure was too high.

It was a huge shock because I didn’t feel unwell. My GP said I had type 2 diabetes, and if I didn’t do something about my weight, blood pressure, and high blood sugar, I’d end up needing medication.

He gave me a copy of Diabetes New Zealand’s Diabetes and Healthy Food Choices and other information.

He said “I’d like you to have another blood (HBA1c) test in a month to see how you are going.”

I realised I needed to make changes to my diet and lifestyle.

Both my parents had prediabetes and my grandmother had type 1.

I was a carb-loving vegetarian.

I changed my diet by eating fewer carbs like bread, pasta, and sweet things. I also ate more vegetables, fruit, and protein such as eggs, nuts, beans, lentils and tofu. I substituted white rice for brown rice and quinoa. I now drink lots of water. I’ve never really drunk sugary fizzy drinks.

The other change I made was to start walking home from work, and that’s pretty much all I did at first.

Three months later I had lost 10kg, my blood sugar had dropped to 37, my blood pressure was down.

My GP was very happy and so was I. I kept going and after six months my blood sugar level had dropped to 35 and I’d lost more weight.

My doctor asked me “How did

you do it?” I told him I took to heart what he said and made some lifestyle changes.

Today, five years later, my HBA1c has nearly halved to 32, my blood pressure is normal and I’ve lost almost 30kg in weight.

I’m not on any medication and I didn’t starve to get to this point, not by any means. I do have to watch what I eat, because it is easy to slip off the wagon. But I still allow myself the occasional treat.

I think walking home from work made a big difference. It’s 6km from the centre of Wellington to my home; it takes an hour and I do it every day, in all weathers. I also go for a walk at the weekend. The mental health benefits of walking are great, too. This month I’m going to walk the Auckland halfmarathon with two friends.

Once I started walking, I began to have more energy and I took up yoga, swimming and aqua aerobics as well. I am now 55 years old and feel fitter than

when I was half my age. I started enjoying exercise and it’s helped lower my blood sugar levels.

Before I decided to do my own version of a GP’s “green prescription” and become more physically active, the most exercise I’d do was walk a short distance to get the bus to and from work and perhaps a short walk at lunchtime. Like many office workers I sit at my desk much of the day.

This is a permanent lifestyle change for me, I’ve changed my diet, not “gone on” a diet. I’ve lost over 25% of my body weight and I feel great for it. I could still do with losing a few more kilos, but I’m certainly healthier and have more energy than I did five years ago.

It wasn’t easy, but I’m motivated to keep on the straight and narrow.

I don’t want to fall back into my old habits, and disappoint myself or my doctor and practice nurse – they’ve been so supportive of my journey back to better health.

SMALL STEPS FOR A HEALTHIER YOU Reduce your body weight Be active daily – 30 minutes a day and more if you can Eat healthier food – Diabetes NZ has a free healthy eating pamphlet (see below).

Control your blood pressure and cholesterol Get checked – ask your GP for an annual health and diabetes check.

Join Diabetes New Zealand and receive its flagship Diabetes WELLNESS magazine packed with tips and advice.

Source: Diabetes NZ

Order our free Diabetes NZ information pamphlets Go to www.diabetes.org.nz, download fill in the pamphlet order form and submit, or email pamphlets@diabetes.org.nz, or call us on 0800 342 238 (a handling fee applies)

ALSO AVAILABLE FREE TO HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Women and diabetes

Stronger together Katie Doyle talks to six women from around the world to find out what motivates them them to care for their diabetes when life gets tough.

“

W

hat do you do when you feel defeated?”

It was my first time joining a meet-up group for people with type 1 diabetes in New York City, and I was caught a little off-guard by this question from my new friend Anne Johnston. I had actually just been feeling defeated only the night before, so I paused for a second before responding. What do I do when I start feeling like that?

“I try to be nice to myself.”

That’s not an easy thing to do when diabetes presents plenty of new challenges each day and many opportunities for selfcriticism, but I try to remember to be nice to me – the hard working, perfectionist, nonstop me.

Anne has since told me that she

feels like she’s always the one asking people how they stay motivated when it seems like diabetes has the upper hand.

I was inspired by her curiosity and decided to pose the question to women around the world with type 1, starting with Anne herself.

“Staying physically and mentally active helps,” says Anne, an accountant in New York. “I fill my calendar with things that make me happy. If I am not doing things I enjoy, it’s easier to get focused on the negative things. For instance, working out keeps my blood sugar more consistent and doing things with friends and family keeps me feeling positive.”

Anne and other women also look to the diabetes online community (DOC) for inspiration.

Canadian blogger Michelle Auerbach says her mother, who has had type 1 diabetes for over 40 years, set the standard for how Michelle shapes her circle of support through the internet.

“We live in a society where women tend to want to fit into a perfect mould. People want to look like the airbrushed models in magazines. When we want to wear a dress and we have a pump, we have to figure out where to put it and where it’ll look good,” Michelle, who lives in Montreal, says. “I’ve formed friendships with others who know exactly what I deal with every day. I am a Global Ambassador for Beyond

Thai Nutnaree Bubpasiri: “We are a close family.”

Australian Fiona Scott: “I’ve learned how lucky I am to have such an amazing partner.”

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Norwegian Martine Hemstad Lyslid: “Find people who fill you up with good energy.”

American Anne Johnston: “Let a day of bad blood sugars go.”

Canadian Michelle Auerbach: “Women with diabetes are some of the strongest people out there.”

Type 1, and I have my own blog, called Love, Light, and Insulin.

Getting involved in this amazing community is what motivates me to keep my head high.”

All over the world, the DOC readily provides solutions for overcoming diabetes-related obstacles. Elisabeth Fraser, a Kiwi living in Tanzania, counts worrying about how to keep her insulin cool amid power outages as one of the obstacles she faces.

“My current challenge is managing blood sugars as a new mum, particularly while breastfeeding. There’s just no predictability,” she says.

“The online community is really important in helping me feel like I’m not alone. Having been diagnosed late in life, I’ve never actually met another type 1 diabetic face to face. One community I recently became a part of is a type 1 diabetes/ pregnancy/motherhood group.

It’s like a sisterhood, so supportive and inspiring. I wish I’d found them earlier.”

Knowing she’s not alone also drives Nutnaree Bubpasiri, an art teacher from Thailand, to keep her nutrition in line and her coffee and tea habit in check. “It’s hard to be cautious about my diet but my diabetes friends help me a

Kiwi Elisabeth Fraser, who lives in Tanzania: “Eating well is the best tool and motivation.” lot,” she says.

After all, that’s the mission of the DOC – to bring together those who know the relentlessness of type 1 diabetes. “I have friends who will get through this along with me,” Nutnaree says.

Nurse Fiona Scott is a diabetes educator based in Geelong, Australia. She is a healthcare professional who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 29 years.

“For all the challenges I face with diabetes, the rewards I have in life are much greater. Daily living is made much easier due to the support of my family and friends who believe in me.”

Fiona was recently named the 2017 Victorian Diabetes Educator of the Year. What advice does she give to other people with diabetes who are struggling to stay motivated?

She recalled a date-nightturned-learning-opportunity with the man who’s now her husband. She discovered she had left her NovoRapid pen at home – throwing their evening dinner plans off-course.

“If I had to give one tip about making life with diabetes easier, it would be to create two different kinds of ‘emergency diabetes kits’. One for day-to-day use that you can carry in a handbag or

backpack, and one that is left at home in case you need a few days’ supply in an emergency,” Fiona says.

“If you are in an accident and are admitted to hospital, a friend or relative can grab your kit, and presto! You have enough supplies for the next week.”

Fiona recently spoke about the topic during a Virtual Roundtable with Beta Change, a diabetes organisation that uses broadcasts on social media to bring the diabetes community together.

No matter how prepared we are, it can be easy to overlook all of the emotional energy and calculation we put into our diabetes care.

Martine Hemstad Lyslid, a sociologist in Norway, reminds all of us who live with diabetes to take a moment to practise some mindfulness.

“I think we are world champions at criticising ourselves when things do not go as well as we want them to do. Stop that right now. We are self-treating a lifelong disease, and sometimes we have to allow ourselves to be a little tired. You’re doing a great job. Don’t ever forget that.”

What motivates you to keep going when diabetes gets you down?

Email editor@diabetes.org.nz

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Beyond type 1

BIKE BEYOND In June Helen Mepham, 29, from Christchurch, set off to cycle 10 weeks across America with 19 other T1 riders. The trip raised more than US$788,000, including US$7,625 raised by Helen herself. The funds will be used for Beyond Type 1’s global programmes of education, advocacy and research.

What was the highlight of your 10-week trip?

Every single day in Colorado was breathtaking. We climbed over Loveland Pass one day and that saw us at the highest elevation (3655m) of the trip. I couldn’t stop smiling! The bike paths were great, the abundant availability of coeliac-friendly gluten-free food was fab and the people we met were always interested to hear about the Bike Beyond journey.

The people I met before and during the ride really made this whole journey, there are so many!

We also got to meet Beyond Type 1 founder Nick Jonas in Napa, which was another highlight.

What was the lowest point?

I found the American roads a major challenge. Near the start we were often on the shoulder of a highway and this made me feel pretty terrified! I’m used to riding in the Port Hills and so three lanes of high-speed traffic left me feeling anxious. I had a bad low after riding all day to Manhattan, in Kansas. I had a seizure and required a glucogon injection. It reminded me of how unrelenting type 1 can be. But I also realised that I’m pretty strong – there were tough times on Bike Beyond, but I really didn’t want to quit!

What did you learn about your diabetes?

I came to see how individual a person’s type 1 is. It didn’t matter if we biked the same route and ate the same food, our sugar levels, bolus requirements, and basal rate adjustments could be totally

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Helen with Nick Jonas, founder of Beyond Type 1

different. I also realised how big an impact stress has on my blood glucose levels. This trip made me very grateful for diabetes technology. The freedom I have with my pump is the most lifechanging thing I’ve experienced in 17 years of having diabetes. It’s allowed me to take on more challenges than I ever could on injections – it has given me the life I feared I couldn’t have because of type 1.

What did you learn about yourself?

I came to realise that I’m definitely an introverted person, and that that is OK! I love people but I also need my own time to recharge. To begin with this was a challenge as I was worried people would think I was being rude. As I grew more comfortable I felt able to grab some space on my own and listen to music – it definitely helped me to mentally recharge for another day on the bike.

What’s next?

On World Diabetes Day (14 November), in Los Angeles, there is going to be a premiere of the Bike Beyond documentary about the team’s trip. I will be attending along with the rest of the team. Beyond Type 1 means so much to me, I hope to continue being involved in its amazing work showing the world how to thrive with type 1.

CONNECT TODAY www.beyondtype1.org

Diabetes Action Month

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? TYPE 1

DIABETES

ABOUT 8% OF CASES An auto-immune condition – the immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin • No known prevention or cure • Usually develops in childhood and adolescence but can also develop in middle and older years.

• Genetic predisposition – unrelated to lifestyle • Requires daily, often multiple, insulin injections or a continuous delivery of insulin with a pump • Requires meticulous attention to blood glucose levels

TYPE 2

DIABETES

ABOUT 90% OF CASES A metabolic condition – the body progressively fails to produce insulin and the body cells resist insulin action • Genetic predisposition but weight loss is thought to prevent or delay it • Usually develops in adulthood, but increasingly being seen in young people • Usually (but not always) associated with poor diet and being overweight • May require oral medication to help the body make or use insulin. As the condition progresses insulin therapy may be needed.

COMPLICATIONS – ALL TYPES OF DIABETES

Blindness and nerve damage

Heart disease, stroke and kidney disease

Amputation of a foot or lower leg, dialysis, kidney transplants, loss of teeth

Reduced life expectancy

Everyone can reduce their risk of complications by taking control of their diabetes and keeping blood sugar levels within safe limits.

Join Diabetes New Zealand at www.diabetes.org.nz to access a range of benefits, healthy lifestyle advice, and be part of Aotearoa’s friendly diabetes community.

Infographic based on information contained in the Ministry of Health’s report Living well with Diabetes 2015-2020

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Research

HEALTHIER LIVES Diabetes New Zealand and the Healthier Lives National Science Challenge are working together to raise the profile of diabetes research in Aotearoa.

T

he Healthier Lives National Science Challenge is a national research programme dedicated to achieving healthier lives for all New Zealanders.

Healthier Lives is focused on the prevention and treatment of four of New Zealand’s main noncommunicable diseases: Diabetes, obesity, cancer and cardiovascular disease. It aims to discover how best to deliver the right prevention to the right population and the right treatment to the right patient.

Deb Connor, President of Diabetes NZ, and Healthier Lives Director Professor Jim Mann signed a Statement of Collaboration agreement in Dunedin in September.

The Healthier Lives Science Challenge is currently funding five major diabetes research studies. You can read about three of them in the Winter 2017 magazine and we will be including regular updates on Healthier Lives’ initiatives in future issues.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

SCHOOLS OUTREACH

One of the ways the Healthier Lives National Science Challenge raises awareness about diabetes is to encourage diabetes health professionals to take part in outreach work in schools.

Endocrinologist Dr Brian Corley visited Wellington East Girls’ College earlier this year to talk about diabetes, some of its causes, and how it is linked to obesity. His talk covered the different types of diabetes, why type 2 diabetes is becoming increasingly common, and how big a problem it is for New Zealand.

Students were surprised to hear how much sugar there is in some foods and drinks, and how these could contribute to obesity.

Dr Corley, who is studying for a PhD in the mechanisms of diabetes remission, demonstrated some of the equipment and tools that people with diabetes use. He also explained his work as an endocrinologist and a researcher, and his pathway into his profession.

His visit was provided as part of Healthier Lives outreach work, and contributed to the Year 11 students’ curriculum for an NCEA health module.

PROJECT ACTIVATE

Healthier Lives has also been involved in another initiative called Project Activate, which aims to inspire Pacific children, their families and communities through hands-on and interactive science activities. These include looking at what we eat and how we move, and the impact small changes can make on having a healthy lifestyle.

The Project Activate movie features twelve 12-year-old Kiwi kids and their families. It follows their progress through a week-long holiday programme that encouraged them to learn about the science of good health in a super-fun way.

The kids and their whānau carried out experiments in a food science lab, invented healthy recipes, learned how to read food labels at the supermarket, measured their own heart rates and swam at the speed of an Olympic swimmer in a test lab.

Project Activate was part of the 2016 International Science Festival, and funded by Unlocking Curious Minds.

You can check out the movie here: https://healthierlives. co.nz/2017/02/02/project-activatethe-movie/

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Eat

Beat the blood sugar rush this Christmas with a little forward planning, says dietitian Helen Gibbs.

PLAN AHEAD FOR HAPPIER HOLIDAYS

M

any people look forward to summer as a time of sun, sea, salads and more physical activity. Healthy holidays in other words. But many of my patients are also worried the opposite will happen, that they lack the willpower to turn down the extra food and drink on offer during the festive period and their hard work losing weight or achieving blood sugar goals during the year will be quickly undone.

Many people with diabetes say they lack willpower to stick to a diet. Personally I don’t believe in the idea of willpower any

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more than I believe in dieting.

Instead I recommend my patients use three simple tools to help keep their blood glucose under control during the holiday season: advance planning, reducing temptation and limiting opportunity, as the following real life examples show.

HŌNE’S PARTY PLAN

One of my type 2 clients, Hōne, who had lost 10kg and stopped his glipizide (diabetes medication), was having a preChristmas review. He told me: “I am planning to have treats only at Christmas parties”.

I asked how many parties.

He said 14 – all before Christmas Day! We agreed he needed to change his plan.

Quite a few of the parties were “bring-a-plate” events based around children’s activities. After some discussion Hōne decided to: • Have a healthy snack before a bring-a-plate event so he was less hungry.

• Bring a healthy plate to share.

• Be the designated driver for the grown up parties, and bring some diet soft drinks in the car in case there wasn’t anything suitable when he got there.

• Try to eat a ½ plate of salads, ¼ plate starchy food and ¼ plate of meat at the buffet or BBQ table.

Hōne also decided to increase his physical activity to offset the extra food and drink over the holiday season. He walked every day in the morning and went swimming with the grandchildren at least twice a week when he and his wife were providing holiday care.

We both agreed not to worry about Christmas Day so Hōne could just enjoy it.

When I saw Hōne in the New Year he was pretty pleased with himself. He had managed to stick to the rules for 11 of 14 parties, and his weight had dropped 1kg – instead of going up 6kg which is what he feared.

HEALTHY FOOD GUIDE – EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OFFER! Jeff was in the habit of eating Christmas treats left out for his grandkids.

TEMPTATION TIME

Karen was angry when she came to see me with her husband Jeff.

She wanted a diet sheet for him to follow over Christmas to keep him on the straight and narrow. It turned out that Jeff, who has type 2 diabetes, was in the habit of eating sweets and chocolate treats that were left out for the grandchildren when they were visiting between Christmas and 6 January.

I asked why the sweets were there in the first place, and this opened up a whole different perspective on the problem. Karen felt the children would get bored and stop coming to visit them unless they got treats. But their 6-year-old grandson had just had three fillings, and she felt bad about that.

Armed with this information we set some joint goals: • No sweets in bowls for grazing.

• One small treat for everyone once a day. These were to be kept out of the way until treat time.

• Karen wouldn’t buy any extra “just-in-case” treats.

Then we addressed the issue of making grandparent time more fun.

Karen and Jeff decided to use the extra money from not purchasing treats to buy several active play toys (ball, hula hoop and elastics), and teach the kids to play some old-fashioned ball games.

They would also encourage all the kids to have better oral hygiene by having a star chart for teeth brushing after each meal. The reward was a trip to the movies.

MOANA’S HARD CHOICE

The best way to avoid overeating is to make high fat and high sugar foods less visible and accessible.

In our house, for example, we have freezer cookies that we bake when needed, such as when we have visitors coming, so there aren’t lots of biscuits lying around begging to be eaten.

Sometimes you can’t control the food you will be offered over the holiday season. Moana, who has prediabetes, came to me asking for advice on how to manage the annual summer week-long event at her parents’ farm.

“We set up tents and eat and drink ourselves silly. Last year I tried to talk about making some changes, and I ended up crying because my sisters got really angry with me. Mum had a toe amputation earlier this year because of her diabetes, but she really doesn’t care and she has told me to not make any fuss.”

As we explored it, she realised she didn’t need to go for the whole time and opted to go for a single weekend. This is a fairly extreme solution but in this case it was her best option.

All names have been changed.

Diabetes New Zealand has teamed up with our friends at Healthy Food Guide to offer a special discounted rate to access their huge treasure trove of diabetesfriendly recipes and expert advice.

The popular magazine’s digital platform www.healthyfood.co.nz has thousands of fast, fresh and healthy recipes, including a special diabetes friendly recipe section, plus lots of expert nutritional and healthrelated advice. This content is being constantly added to every week.

Our members can take advantage of an exclusive offer to access all of this info, advice and recipes for just $15 per year instead of the usual $23.40 – that’s only $1.25 a month.

The recipes are suitable for people with diabetes, prediabetes, or anyone wanting to make healthier food choices.

The team at Healthy Food Guide will also donate a proportion of your subscription to Diabetes NZ to help with our vital work.

SIGN UP TODAY!

• Go to www.healthyfood.co.nz • Click on SUBSCRIBE in the top right • Select the Digital option – then tick the yearly option (showing as $23.40) • Fill in your details and enter DNZ17 when asked for your PROMOTION CODE (this code will change the price to $15)

This offer is only available to Diabetes NZ members. Not a member? Sign up today at www.diabetes.org.nz

Care

Tackle diabetes Dr Catherine McNamara explains why she developed the Tackle Diabetes plan to help people living with type 2 manage their condition.

L

Tackle Diabetes® is a six-part action plan to help anyone with type 2 diabetes to fully understand the steps that are needed to reverse or control their condition.

The companion programme Tackle Prediabetes® aims to help people make lifestyle changes to prevent them developing type 2 diabetes before it’s too late.

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

earning how to effectively manage your diabetes is vital for anyone living with type 2 diabetes. But the number of people accessing courses or online resources is very low – less than 10% – despite the proven benefits of diabetes self-management education.

Recent consumer research at Waitemata DHB indicated that many people living with type 2 diabetes are also frustrated by the conflicting management advice they frequently receive from their health care providers.

To try and overcome this problem, I developed the Tackle Diabetes plan, a six-part action plan that can be used as a reliable and consistent resource in primary care, where the majority of people with type 2 diabetes are treated.

The Tackle Diabetes plan is an interactive, self-directed programme that focuses on the topics of Healthy Eating, Physical Activity, Weight Management, Motivation, Risk Reduction and Staying on Track.

By making small changes in each of these inter-related areas, a person living with type 2 diabetes can make massive improvements to their diabetes self-management. Research has shown that healthy lifestyle can prevent progression of type 2 diabetes, reducing the need for strong medications such as insulin. And some people

who have managed to lose significant amounts of weight have managed to put their type 2 diabetes into remission!

Central to the Tackle Diabetes plan is the 543210 Healthy Eating Plan which coaches people on how to make the best food choices for their diabetes. Food planning and keeping a record of daily intake of foods belonging to six key food groups will help improve blood sugar levels as well as help with weight loss.

The Tackle Motivation section of the plan coaches people living with diabetes to have a better frame of mind by controlling things like negative thoughts and self-destructive beliefs. This can be achieved by practising some simple techniques such as visualisation and making positive affirmations.

The Staying on Track section provides important information to help people using the programme to deal with the usual hurdles and pitfalls that may prevent them from sticking to healthy lifestyle plans.

Most adults these days are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including doctors and nurses. In fact recent research shows that a third to a quarter of adults already have prediabetes To this end, a companion programme called Tackle Prediabetes is also available and is suitable for people recently diagnosed with prediabetes.

The Tackle Prediabetes and

1. Tackle healthy eating

2. Tackle exercise

3. Tackle weight management

4. Tackle motivation

5. Tackle risk reduction and care planning

6. Tackle staying on track

Diabetes diagnosis? It will come as a shock for most people but the good news is that you can reverse or improve your type 2 diabetes by following six simple steps.

Tackle Diabetes action plans are not-for-profit and are currently being trialled by Waitemata District Health Board as part of a primary care research project.

Both plans come in the form of small, easy-to-read manuals that include a food planner, food and exercise diary, care plan and motivation journal. They are intended as a three-month programme but I hope people will feel inspired to keep using them long-term.

Research shows that the formation of new habits takes about three months – so it is

important to stick with the plan!

I developed Tackle Diabetes to empower anyone living with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes to make steady, incremental changes to their lifestyle and mindset. I hope all health care providers across Aotearoa will use and advocate the plans.

Further information can be found on the Tackle Diabetes website at www.tacklediabetes.com. You can also buy the books online for $19.95 each.

Dr Catherine McNamara is diabetes consultant at Waitemata District Health Board. Her main clinical and research interest over the past 20 years has been focused on improving access to diabetes selfmanagement education for people living with type 2 diabetes.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Dig

A PREFERENCE FOR

PUMPKINS Rachel Knight explains how to choose, grow and store one of New Zealand’s favourite summer veges.

P

umpkins are easy to grow and look fabulous. They need little care and you’ll find a shape and size to suit your garden and your culinary preferences. They’ll keep delivering their orangey goodness all through winter bringing summer sunshine to your plate on the shortest and coldest of days.

A FAMILY WITH PERSONALITY: Pumpkins or gourds belong to the Curcubita plant family. They are sisters of cucumbers and melons. Some varieties are known as ‘squash’.

We keep winter squash until their skins harden so they store without rotting. We eat summer squash when young and fresh with a soft skin. Zucchinis (to the Italians) or courgettes (to the French) are part of the summer squash family.

SQUEEZE IN A SQUASH: You can grow the smallest varieties vertically and larger

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

ones sprawling on the ground.

They love to have their roots in a maturing compost heap.

Otherwise each pumpkin plant will need at least a square metre of space in your garden and you may need to pinch out shoots to keep them tidy.

START SLOWLY: Pumpkins are frost tender and won’t germinate until it’s warm so buy plants or start seeds indoors. There’s a wider range of shapes, sizes and colours to choose from if you start from seed. Growing plants from a seed you’ve saved from a favourite pumpkin is worthwhile even if you can’t guarantee an exact replica of the parent. Maybe that’s the fun of it. Even if you wait until the New Year, you’ll still get a crop from summer squash plants.

HUNGRY AND THIRSTY: Pumpkins do well with plenty of compost around their roots.

This provides the nutrients they need to grow well. It also soaks up and retains water. Dig a hole big enough to fill with a wheelbarrow of compost. Soak well at least weekly once fruit start to form.

Spread cardboard or a thick layer of newspaper around your pumpkins, held down with a mulch of straw, bark chips or lawn

clippings to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and add more organic matter to the soil.

PICK THE BEST: Select summer squash when small and tender, picking daily in peak season.

Store pumpkins in a cool dry place out of the reach of hungry mice (that’s all of them). The best winter squash will keep for six months or more if the stalk is intact and the skin free from blemishes.

PUMPKIN PERFECTION ON YOUR PLATE: There are as many ways to use zucchini, pumpkin and squash flesh as there are varieties from which to choose. All make the perfect vessel for a tasty stuffing.

Spicy or savoury, baked or blended, shredded or stuffed.

You need never get bored. Roast some extra pumpkin to use in a salad or add to a smoothie. Add grated pumpkin to a cake, lasagne or risotto. Fashion a fritter from a squash for a fresh, fast lunch option or popular pass-around.

Pumpkin seeds make a delicious toasted snack roasted and seasoned with a little salt. More pumpkins anyone? Yes please.

SEVEN TEMPTING VARIETIES TO TRY First to ripen Summer squash ‘Sunbeam’ – yellow scallopini Mini variety for climbing Squash African Gem – cricket-ball sized dark green fruit Hull-less seeds Pumpkin ‘Austrian Oil Seed’ Giant pumpkins Pumpkin ‘Atlantic Giant’ Medium sized fruit and good keeping qualities Pumpkin ‘Baby Bear’ – 1kg round, orange fruit.

Small, compact butternut Squash Butternut Chieftain.

Amazing giant banana: Squash Pink Banana Jumbo All available from Kings Seeds www.kingsseeds.co.nz

SLOW-COOKED PEANUT PUMPKIN SOUP This soup has an intriguing nutty taste. You can use pumpkin only or a mix of pumpkin, kumara or other vegetables such as carrot or parsnip if you have them.

SERVES: 4–6 Portions 250g pumpkin flesh, peeled and cut into cubes 250g kumara, peeled and cut into cubes 1 medium onion, peeled and cut into chunks 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1 litre boiling water or vegetable stock 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

Roast the vegetables on a non-stick baking tray at 180°C for about 30 minutes until soft and browning at the edges.

Scrape the roasted vegetables into the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients.

Cook on high for 1–2 hours.

Blend until smooth using a stick blender.

Check seasoning and adjust to taste. Whether you need more salt will depend on the saltiness of your stock, curry powder and peanut butter.

TIP: If you’re usually a fan of sour cream in your soup, try natural unsweetened low fat yogurt instead.

PER SERVE: CALORIES 486kJ / kcal 116 | FAT 3.2g (SAT FAT 0.5g) | CARBS 15.5g (SUGARS 4g) | SODIUM 445mg

The 2018 Organic Gardener’s Year calendar Organic Edible Garden has dug deep and is donating $2 from every purchase of their 2018 Organic Gardener’s Year calendar to Diabetes New Zealand.

This beautiful calendar is packed full of gardening ideas along with seasonal advice and makes for the perfect gift or to take pride of place on your own wall at home. Purchase today and know that you’re helping to make a difference in the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

http://organicediblegarden.co.nz/shop/calendar-2018

the perfect Christmas gift! $20

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

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Community

Trevor, second from left and Barbara, fourth from right, love attending their local diabetes support group.

ONE GOAL AT A TIME Diabetes NZ support groups are a great way to connect with others, learn about diabetes, and have fun.

T

revor Turton has had a bit of a rough time healthwise over the past few years but that’s not stopped him setting and achieving personal goals and making the most out of life Trevor, 73, wanted to do a marathon before he turned 60 and he did just that, completing the 40th annual Rotorua marathon in 2004. And in 2010, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he decided to knock that on the head too and has been living cancer free for seven years.

Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes soon after his cancer diagnosis, Trevor recently set himself another goal – to achieve better

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blood sugar control by doing more exercise and eating more healthily.

Behind every man is a wonderful woman and in Trevor’s case wife Barbara is a rock of support in his quest for better health.

It was Barbara, who doesn’t have diabetes, who decided to check out a Diabetes NZ Rotorua Branch meeting last year by going along on her own to see what it was like.

She was immediately hooked by the camaraderie and friendliness, and the pair now regularly attend the group’s Thursday meetings.

“I’ve learned so much going to the meetings, they have guest speakers, there’s so much information available if you know where to look”, says Barbara.

“Trevor’s new goal is to look after himself and come off his diabetes medication. He’s very good, he goes to the gym and is

trying to watch what he eats.

“I’m the food police because I do the cooking and try to keep him on the straight and narrow.”

Barbara and Trevor weren’t aware there was a diabetes group in Rotorua until a nurse at their GP practice recommended it.

“We like meeting other people and knowing that other people are going through it like we are, I like listening to their stories and how they are managing, it’s a great support and a great group of people,” adds Barbara.

“I’m so glad I went along to see what it was like and found out how wonderful it was.”

The couple have made some positive lifestyle changes since joining the group: they have been eating more healthily and Trevor has taken up aqua-jogging as well as going to the gym.

Check out the full list of Diabetes NZ branches, right.

BRANCH DIRECTORY UPPER NORTH ISLAND

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

Auckland PO Box 13578, Onehunga, Auckland 1643 0508 DIABETES (0508 342 238) office@diabetesauckland.org.nz www.diabetesauckland.org.nz

Diabetes New Zealand National Office Diabetes New Zealand National Office (04) 499 7145 PO Box 12441 Wellington 6144 admin@diabetes.org.nz www.diabetes.org.nz For general enquiries and information pamphlets 0800 DIABETES (0800 342 238)

Support: Phone support with nurse.

Support groups across Greater Auckland, Silver Medal Club celebrating those 50 years on insulin. Healthy Options = Positive Eating (HOPE) courses run in at-risk communities throughout Auckland.

Awareness: Awareness sessions through workplaces as well as community organisations. We attend events to raise awareness about diabetes and diabetes prevention. Mobile Diabetes Awareness Service with free diabetes testing throughout Auckland.

Online Shop: All full members receive 10% off online orders.

Youth: Diabetes Youth Auckland organise camps for children, teenagers and parents.

Education evenings in conjunction with Starship. Events and get-togethers throughout the year for the whole family.

Gisborne PO Box 1029 Gisborne 3801 (06) 867 7341 Contact: Guy Riki (Chair) Rotorua* Taylforth House, 1147 Pukaki Street Rotorua 3010 (07) 343 9950 info@diabetesnzrotorua.org.nz www.diabetesnzrotorua.org.nz Notes: Free drop-in morning tea/support group every Thursday morning between 10am and 12pm.

Taupo PO Box 2379, Taupo 3351 07 378 2749 Contact: Elizabeth Blackstaffe (Chair) Waikato* 28 Te Aroha Street, Hamilton East, Hamilton (07) 8539854 diabetesw@xtra.co.nz www.diabeteswaikato.com Notes: Office/drop-in centre open Monday to Friday 9am-12pm for information, brochures and products. Services include regional support groups, events and education, support and advocacy.

Horowhenua 41 Princes St, Levin 5510 (06) 368 8740 diabetesnzhorowhenua@gmail.com Taranaki* PO Box 896, Taranaki Mail Centre, New Plymouth 4340 (06) 758 7873 diabetesnztab@xtra.co.nz Wairarapa (06) 377 4546 fjsutherland@xtra.co.nz Contact: Finlay Sutherland (President)

Otago* 135 Frederick St, Dunedin (03) 474 0240 diabetesotago@vodafone.co.nz Notes: Drop-in centre and retail shop open 10am-2pm Monday to Friday.

South Otago 42 Stamford Street, Balclutha 9230 (03) 418 1517 Southland* 151 Gala St, Invercargill (03) 218 3422 diabetes.southlandfo@xtra.co.nz Notes: Drop-in support centre operates every Friday from mid-January to midDecember. Opening hours are 1.30pm– 3.30pm. A diabetes nurse is available to take blood glucose and blood pressure readings, discuss problems, and provide other support.

West Coast Greymouth (03) 768 5969 billstanley@xtra.co.nz Contact: Patricia Stanley

Wanganui PO Box 102, Wanganui 4541 (06) 2813195 lizrobertson@infogen.net.nz SOUTH ISLAND Nelson Youth diabetesyouthnelson@gmail.com North Otago Community House, 100 Thames Street, Oamaru 9400 (03) 434 2224 or 027 429 5620

AUCKLAND WAIKATO

TARANAKI

TAUPO

ROTORUA

GISBORNE

WANGANUI HOROWHENUA WAIRARAPA

NELSON YOUTH

NATIONAL OFFICE WELLINGTON

Notes: Call to make an appointment WEST COAST at the drop-in centre. Supermarket tours from February to October with a final one being held during Diabetes Awareness Month in November. We also have two NORTH OTAGO walking groups that meet on OTAGO Tuesday and Thursday mornings SOUTH OTAGO at the Oamaru Gardens SOUTHLAND (Chelmer Street car park) 10.30am.

Phone the office to participate in the walking group.

* These branches have youth teams/representatives Â

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

31

Move

Craig Wise on developing a positive mindset for being more physically active.

M IS FOR MOTIVATION

O

ne thing just about everyone asks me is “Why is it so hard to exercise?” and every time I give the same reply: “If it was easy everyone would do it.” That answer is really a bit of a cop out, but really, why is it so hard?

Studies have shown we are 30% less active during the colder winter months. So now summer is here how do we find that motivation to become more active, and more importantly keep it up?

SETTING GOALS AND THE POWER OF THE MIND

In recent years I have become incredibly interested in the power of positive thoughts. The science behind it is immense and very compelling.

You may have heard stories of professional rugby players who spend hours both practising their goal kicking and visualising their kicking success. This can also work for us mere mortals.

Try spending some time each day visualising how active you would like to be and think about how it would make you feel. For example, the feeling of happiness as you run with your children in the park, or the achievement as you cross the finish line of that half marathon you have been training for over the past three months.

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Now you have the vision, next you need to work out the steps to get there. This is where setting some goals comes into play.

Think about where you are now and set some realistic short-term goals (I repeat, realistic). They may not seem like goals which are going to win you a World Cup but each one is important. If you are not active at the moment the first goal might just be to get active three times a week for two weeks.

Then comes the important part.

When you have decided on your goal, or goals, write them down and tell someone who will remind you to keep to your word or, even better, find someone who will get active with you.

CHOOSING THE ACTIVITY

I’m often asked what is the best activity to do to – lose weight, get fitter, build a six-pack or a bigger booty. I have a standard answer for this too: “Choose the activity you enjoy doing”. If you don’t like an activity you won’t keep it up – if you don’t like running don’t make that your activity of choice.

Find what makes you happy and turn that into your activity. If you really enjoy Scottish country dancing then look around and find the local Highland dancing club – because you know you will enjoy it and keep going.

If you enjoy being social then getting involved in a local sports

or walking group, or gym class, is often a good way to get some more of that external motivation to keep going.

FALLING OFF THE WAGON

Before you get started it is good to spend some time thinking about the things which stop you from getting active and how you can limit them happening, or how you will compromise if one or all of them crop up. This might be the need to work extra hours to get a work project finished, or the school holidays.

The key thing to remember is that if you do end up missing a time when you said you were going to be active don’t lose heart and give up. Just promise yourself to try harder in the future.

ADDING ACCOUNTABILITY

This is where your friends and/ or family really come into their own. Find someone who will support you and believes that you can achieve your goal. Ask that person to be your cheerleader and the person who keeps you accountable. Tell them which days you are going to be doing your activity and ask them to contact you on the evening of that day to ask one question…how did it go? You are more likely to stay on track if you know someone is going to be following up on your progress.

Find an activity that suits you and that you enjoy doing. Or mix it up and choose two or three different kinds of exercise that you like.

STOP AND BE STILL

This sounds counter-intuitive but along with the time you have set aside to be active try to also find a couple of minutes at least twice a week to stop and be calm and peaceful in yourself. This time is for you and you alone to stop and reflect on your fitness and activity.

Think about your goals and how you are going to achieve them, visualise those goals and remember the positive feelings you have associated with achieving them. This is also a good time to think about the challenges you see coming up and how you are going to overcome them.

EIGHT TOP TIPS FOR SETTING REALISTIC EXERCISE GOALS 1. Put an appointment in your diary – you wouldn’t miss an appointment with your boss at work, don’t miss these appointments either.

2. Find your why? Why are you getting active? (Be specific about it.) Just saying “I want to be fitter or lose weight” isn’t enough. Set a really specific goal for yourself.

3. Share your goals with friends and family, share your journey too. Getting as much support as you can will really help to keep you motivated and on track.

4. Find an activity or two which suit you and that you enjoy doing – you are more likely to keep it up.

5. Setbacks happen, don’t lose heart, forget them and move on.

6. Be realistic about your goals – if you have been a professional couch potato for years don’t expect to go out and run a marathon in two months’ time.

7. Reward yourself – have a predetermined reward for when you reach your goals and take time to enjoy it.

8. Meditate and reflect – spend time to stop and be calm – on your activity and the challenges coming up and those that you have overcome.

Want to get started? Email Craig and he will send you his goal-setting sheet with step-by-step instructions. Contact him at info@getfitandhealthy.co.nz.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

33

Eat

A Japanese inspired salad for a simple lunch in the sun.

SUMMER IN A BOWL DECONSTRUCTED NOURISHING SUSHI BOWL This sushi bowl is a lunch or dinner salad, with fibre, carbohydrates, protein and good fats.

PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES COOKING TIME: 10 MINUTES SERVES 2 + GLUTEN-FREE + DAIRY-FREE

DIETITIAN’S TIPS For a lighter meal make this serve 3 to 4 Miso, tamari and soy sauce are high in sodium – try low-salt versions if you prefer

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DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small red (Spanish) onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger 370g (13 oz/2 cups) cooked brown rice 70g (2½ oz) snow peas (mangetout), trimmed 80g (2¾ oz) green beans, trimmed and halved 2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) 1 large kale leaf, thinly sliced, stalk removed (about 1 cup) 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 small carrot, sliced into ribbons 2 nori sheets, torn into pieces 185g (6½ oz) tinned tuna in oil, drained 2 tablespoons black chia seeds 1 avocado 2 tablespoons Miso Coriander Dressing (see opposite) 2 tablespoons sesame seeds Lemon wedges and pickled kimchi to serve

METHOD Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, ginger and cooked brown rice and stir until heated through. Stir in the snow peas, beans and tamari, followed by the kale. Drizzle the lemon juice over, then remove from the heat and divide between two bowls.

Top each bowl with half each of the carrot, torn nori and tuna, keeping each ingredient separate.

Halve the avocado lengthways and discard the skin and stone.

Spread the chia seeds on a plate, dip one side of each avocado half into the seeds, then add to the bowl. We eat with our eyes so take your time arranging the toppings! Add a drizzle of raw miso dressing over each salad bowl and top with the sesame seeds. Serve with wedges of lemon and a little kimchi or other fermented vegetables.

FOR THE RICE For 370g (13 oz/2 cups) of brown rice, put 310ml (10¾ fl oz/1¼ cups) of water in a saucepan, add salt and bring to the boil. Add 110g (3¾ oz/ ½ cup) uncooked brown rice, reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.

MISO CORIANDER DRESSING 145g (½ cup) white (shiro) miso 90g (⅓ cup) tahini 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves Combine all of the dressing ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

CALORIES 3680+220kJ / kcal 880+50 | PROTEIN 47g | FAT TOTAL 40g (SAT FAT 6.7g) | CARBS 81.2g (SUGARS 11g) | SODIUM 2210mg

Extracted with permission from A Whole New Way to Eat by Vladia Cobrdova.

Step into fad-free wholefood eating with recipes you can trust from the original modern Australian health food retailer.

A Whole New Way to Eat is a modern take on healthy eating for those more interested in eating well than following the latest craze.

Nutritionist Vladia Cobrdova is a recipe developer and Wellness Ambassador from About Life, Australia’s largest wholefoods retail store.

A Whole New Way to Eat, by Vladia Cobrdova, is published by Murdoch Books, RRP $45

A gift of a lifetime Every day, an average of 40 New Zealanders are diagnosed with diabetes. A gift in your will is a powerful legacy to ensure your desire to help and support people with diabetes lives on.

No matter how big or small, your bequest will make a world of difference in helping Diabetes New Zealand to support the 257,000 New Zealanders with diabetes to live full and active lives.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Jo Chapman jo@diabetes.org.nz or +64 21 852 054

Community

TOUR DE FRANCE FUNDRAISER Shayne Thomson pedalled the Tour de France cycle race – from the comfort of his own fruit and veg shop – raising a très magnifique $11,000 for diabetes!

Shayne and his French wife Virginie are parents of Angie, aged 9, who was diagnosed with type 1 in October last year.

The couple wanted to do something to help children with diabetes and Shayne came up with the idea of doing the 3,540 km-long French cycle race as a fundraiser.

Unable to take time off, Shayne decided to pedal it while he was working at the family’s Froggie Fruit and Veg business in Waiuku.

From 1 July to 31 July, Shayne “biked” 100kms per day while he worked at the family’s shop, usually from 5am to late.

Shayne, Virginie and Angie were overwhelmed by the incredible amount of community support they received, including a bike from the local gym.

They raised more than $11,000 and the funds will be used for Diabetes NZ’s Youth Camps and to provide education for newly diagnosed children and teenagers.

Chief Executive Steve Crew paid tribute to the Thomsons’ fundraising efforts and travelled to meet them.

“I wanted to thank them for what they have done. We are thrilled to see how much support they have had from their local community.

The funds raised will make a huge difference to children and teenagers living with diabetes across New Zealand.”

GLUCOSE METER FUNDING Diabetes NZ has made an official submission to Pharmac on the funding of blood glucose meters for people living with diabetes. It sought feedback from members and supporters on the current sole-provider funding model.

“The message that came through in all of these sessions, and that has been reiterated in response to this feedback round, is the desire for choice – that one size does not fit all,” says Deb Connor, President of Diabetes NZ. “We recognise that there will be four Caresens meters funded under this proposal and also acknowledge that the Caresens range of meters has some great features, but despite this the overwhelming feedback received was in favour of people with diabetes having some choice of funded meters.”

TECHNOLOGY STUDY Dr Karen Day is keen to talk to you if you use phone apps or wearable devices to track your activity (eg a Fitbit), and/ or the internet to help you manage your health issues.

She is researching the best information technologies for managing health conditions like diabetes. Connect with Karen at k.day@auckland. ac.nz or join her Facebook group called Self-e-Health.

GRANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Diabetes New Zealand would like to thank the following funders for their ongoing grant support: Pub Charity Limited, Four Winds Foundation, Lottery Ministers Discretionary Fund, Lottery Grants.

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Obituary

LIFELONG DIABETES CHAMPION

M

ore than half a century ago, in 1962, John Bettany became one of the founder members of The Diabetic Association of New Zealand, the forerunner of the modern day Diabetes New Zealand organisation.

He helped govern the organisation in the early 1970s, serving first as Vice-President, then President, returning to the committee some years later as Vice-President. His contribution was recognised in 1989, when he was awarded Life Membership in the same year the association changed its name to Diabetes NZ. John was a lifelong diabetes champion. He stepped up to take the reins in the early years of an organisation which at the time had very little money or public recognition. He volunteered to serve on committees no-one else wanted to sit on and worked hard to raise awareness and advocate on behalf of people living with diabetes.

Having type 1 diabetes for more than half a century himself, John understood only too well the challenge of living with a lifelong condition that required constant vigilance. In 1971, insulin had only been around for 50 years, there was no fingerprick testing, instead urine testing and bulky

PHOTO: SIMON WOOLF

Past President of Diabetes New Zealand John Bettany spent a lifetime advocating on behalf of people living with diabetes.

John Bettany, centre, with other past Presidents of Diabetes New Zealand: from left Russ Finnerty, Chris Baty, Lee Brehaut and Murray Dear, at the 50th anniversary celebrations in Wellington in 2012 at Government House.

syringes were the go. In 1971 disposable syringes became available for the first time but people with type 1 diabetes had to pay for them “at cost”: they weren’t free like they are now.

During the 1970s, when John was at the helm, children’s camps and diabetes awareness weeks became regular events in the association’s diary and local diabetes societies offered support and advocacy to people living with diabetes in their areas, much as they do today.

John was an active member of the Nelson diabetes society following his retirement from Bettany Gears, a specialist engineering firm that his family established. He continued to stand up and speak out for PWD right into his 80s, appearing in the Nelson Mail in 2013 to raise questions about the accuracy of new publicly-funded meters.

Russ Finnerty, who first met John in 1976 when he was a member of the organisation’s National Executive, paid tribute

to his dogged determination: “All his life he continued to be actively involved, lobbying for the benefit of people with diabetes. He never failed to step up to the hard questions. He did the things no-one else wanted to do, he stepped in when there was a group and something that needed to be done.

“John, together with his wife Maureen, was one of the stalwarts in the early formative years of the organisation, when early publicity drives made people aware of the fact that diabetes was something that needed to be tackled in this country.”

“John lived for 60 years with diabetes, and took his control very seriously. Diabetes NZ owes him a great debt not only as someone who got things done, but also as a role model.”

John, who is survived by his wife Maureen and two children, died in Nelson on 18 August 2017 aged 89.

DIABETES WELLNESS | Summer 2017

37

Ruby’s world

Ruby McGill on the worries that keep her up at night.

KICK FEAR TO THE KERB

W

hen it comes to dealing with life’s calamities I choose to cross that bridge when and if we have to, not a moment before. I refuse to waste any of my time or precious energy worrying about something that may never happen. However there is one thing that keeps me up at night, chilling me to the core. What if my children are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes?

I know I shouldn’t let the fear of a type 1 diagnosis affect me but I wouldn’t wish this incurable autoimmune condition on my worst enemy, let alone my daughter.

Am I being irrational when every request for an extra drink of water or late night visit to the toilet I think, Is this it? Are their little immune systems getting ready to attack?

Miss 6 likes to test her own blood sugar levels. Recently she proudly announced “I just tested my blood sugars and I’m 9.8.

(176 mg/dL)” What? Keep calm.

Breathe. My heart was racing.

A non-diabetic’s blood sugar level normally falls between

4.0 mmol/L (72 mg/dL) and 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL). Sounding slightly hysterical I asked her to wash her hands and check again.

I began mentally rescheduling our afternoon plans, organising a babysitter and sorting the logistics of a hospital stay.

Miss 6 returns moments later and checks her blood sugars again… 5.6 mmol/L (101 mg/dL).

She must have had something on her fingers that caused the previous high result. What a relief! My heart rate slows but the fear remains.

Just when I needed a little help to let this go I discovered the latest Diabetes doing things podcast with Dana Howe. She is the social media manager for Beyond Type 1 and a third generation type 1 diabetic, her dad and granddad also have type 1. Dana has had an incredible support team from the very beginning.

Perhaps I was looking at this all wrong? Every type 1 diagnosis is unfair, terrifying, life changing and stressful, but my goodness if any of my children have to

carry this burden they will have the strongest support team imaginable. Their parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles would call on the past 18 years of living with or supporting someone with type 1 to ensure they continue to live a full and long life. If it gets tough I will do what I always do and reach out to the strong, brave and ever-supportive type 1 diabetic community. You think a type 1 diabetic is tough, wait until you meet a parent or caregiver of a type 1. They are incredible, always willing to share the highs and the lows, the struggles and the wins, no matter how small.

With that in mind I will breathe and carry on. Life is busy, mad, chaotic, fun and interesting, just as it is. I must kick the fear of a type 1 diagnosis to the kerb and enjoy every precious moment. Even though I will watch for the symptoms of type 1 diabetes like a hawk, I choose to cross the type 1 diagnosis bridge if we come to it and only then!

You can follow Ruby’s journey to master diabetes at www.masteringdiabetesnz.com

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HELPING TO MANAGE YOUR DIABETES

Diabete-Ezy Accessories

FreeStyle Optium Blood Glucose and Blood Ketones Testing • FreeStyle Optium Meter Kit • FreeStyle Optium Blood Glucose Test Strips 50’s • FreeStyle Optium Blood Ketones Test Strips 10’s

• • • • •

Frio Cooling Wallets

MedActive Carry Cases

• • • • •

A selection of convenient carry cases for medical supplies.

• Easy Bag Single • iCool Prestige • Easy Bag Classic • iCool MediCube • iCool Weekender

Diabetes Care

Keeps Insulin cool and safe Refrigeration not required Simply activate with cold water Reusable, light and compact Available in five sizes and six colours

Ezy-Fit Carry Case (Blue, Pink & Green) Multi-Fit Carry Cases (Black & Red) Test Wipes Starter Pack Test Wipes Refills Comfy Pump Belts Diabete-ezy™

medactiv transforming lives

Hypo-Fit Glucose Gel

Dexto Energy Glucose Tablets

• Two flavours – Orange and Tropical • 18gram sachets, 13.4grams Carbohydrates • Gluten-Free

• 24 sticks per carton (12 tablets per stick) • Available in four flavours Orange, Blackcurrent, Lemon, Tropical • All with added Vitamin C

HYPO-FIT D I R E C T- E N E R G Y

Order Online: www.mediray.co.nz Freephone: 0800 106 100 Address for Correspondence: PO Box 303205, North Harbour, Auckland, New Zealand

Introducing the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system.

A painless, 1-second scan tells you: • Your current glucose reading • Your 8-hour glucose history • If your glucose is going up, down or changing slowly The reader even scans through clothing.†

Why prick, when you can scan?‡

FLASH GLUCOSE MONITORING SYSTEM

Find out more at FreeStyleLibre.co.nz

*Scanning the sensor does not require lancets. †The reader can capture data from the sensor when it is within 1 cm to 4 cm of the sensor. ‡A finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required during times of rapidly changing glucose levels when interstitial fluid glucose levels may not accurately reflect blood glucose levels or if hypoglycaemia or impending hypoglycaemia is reported by the System or when symptoms do not match the System readings. The FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System is a glucose monitoring device indicated for detecting trends and tracking patterns in persons (aged 18 and older) with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Health care professionals and consumers should be aware about the limitations of available scientific evidence for use of this device in any other groups of patients who require diabetes management. Ask your healthcare professional how a FreeStyle glucose meter may assist you. Always read the label and use only as directed. For more information call Customer Service on 0800 106 100.

FreeStyle and related brand marks are trademarks of Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. in various jurisdictions. Information contained herein is for distribution outside of the USA only. Medi’Ray New Zealand, 53-55 Paul Mathews Road Albany, Auckland 0632 www.mediray.co.nz ABN 95 000 180 389 ADC05126 TAPS NA 9299