DW Autumn 2023 Editorial

Tēnā koutou katoa.

The importance of human connection has been highlighted in recent years, whether it be through whānau, friends, or neighbours. In the 13 years since the first of two diabetes diagnoses in our house, having the chance to talk with, message, email, and listen to others within the diabetes community has been an integral part of our ability to manage and sometimes just cope!

We’ve met complete strangers in cafes because our then eight-year-old would leap out of his seat when he saw another child taking their insulin. We’ve met wise and well-informed specialists, and we’ve learnt tips and tricks from groups that were willing to share. Living well with diabetes takes a village, and although each individual’s pathway is unique the common thread is the importance of a community of people who support each other whenever they can.

Each November, Diabetes Action Month puts the spotlight on our diabetes communities. In 2022, we reached new audiences, with our stories, experiences, and information, through television, radio, print, and online media. Sneaker Friday continues to grow awareness (not to mention fundraising) through the simplicity of wearing comfortable shoes for the day.

Special thanks go out to the fabulous band of influencers and celebrities who joined our community to advocate and educate for 2022!

As members of the Advisory Council, fair access to lifeimproving technologies remains a priority for us. I look forward to the day when Diabetes Action Month is a Show us your funded Flash or Continuous Glucose Meter while you wear it month! We can each help our community by continuing to have conversations about the long-term health benefits of accessible technology with anyone who will listen.

The Advisory Council welcomes any input from our diabetes community, so do add us to your network of connections and supporters.

In this issue of Diabetes Wellness, we bring you the inspiring story of a pilot who regained his licence two years after being diagnosed with LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults). We feature a winning body builder, and we share what’s involved in getting Work and Income NZ to fund your Flash Glucose Meter. As usual, you will find pages of delicious recipes, this time centred around the simplicity of a sprouted seed.

I wish you all the best for 2023. Let’s continue to look after ourselves and each other.

Ngā mihi

LYNDAL LUDLOW Advisory Chair, Diabetes NZ