Diabetes Matters Spring 2017 by Diabetes WA

Spring 2017 $6.95

NEWS • RECIPES • RESEARCH • PEOPLE • EVENTS • FITNESS

From the Editor BGLs, your food intake, Diabetes is all about balance. Balancing your It is also about finding a on. icati med your energy output and your ing time and finding an balance in your time management. Allow treat your condition is , ssary appropriate place to test and, if nece When you throw the etes. diab your g agin an essential part of man e work spaces into som of demands of work, and the awkwardness to maintain. ult diffic e mor me the mix, this balance can beco on diabetes in the This edition of Diabetes Matters focuses rent forms and diffe y man take can ces workplace. Workpla , starting in a new force whether you are just entering the work on your way to are you or s year for job, have been in your job ent challenges for people (or already in) retirement, they can pres living with diabetes (see page 8). face discrimination in the Sometimes people with diabetes can not understand the condition do rs othe workplace simply because know your rights as well or how it is managed. It’s important you so many treatment With 10). as your responsibilities (see page le with diabetes can peop of rity majo vast the , options now a days range of jobs wide a in be valuable and productive employees throughout the workforce. ort are the key to Education, communication and supp e. I hope you find plac work the in ent diabetes managem pages, as well as an wing some useful information on the follo entertaining read. Enjoy,

Natasha

SPRING 2017

Telethon kid turns baker

Contents From the President.........................................................3 Perspective......................................................................4

Diabetes News National Diabetes Week.................................................5 Sharing Knowledge........................................................6 DESMOND video............................................................7

Diabetes in the Workplace Managing Diabetes at Work .........................................8 Rights in the Workplace...............................................10 Planning for Retirement...............................................12

Corporate Health

Editor Natasha Simmons Editorial & Advertising Enquiries Diabetes WA, PO Box 1699, Subiaco, WA, 6904

Its All About Balance ...................................................14

Education Planner

Phone 1300 001 880 Email media@diabeteswa.com.au Editorial submissions should be sent to Diabetes WA, care of the above address. All care will be taken with contributions however no liability for loss or damage to unsolicited materials will be accepted. Disclaimer The opinions expressed in articles and the claims made in advertising materials presented in Diabetes Matters are those of the authors and the advertisers respectively, and do not necessarily reflect the view of Diabetes WA, unless stated. The information provided is for the purposes of general information and is not meant to substitute the independent medical judgment of a health professional regarding specific and individualised treatment options for a specific medical condition. No responsibility is accepted by Diabetes WA or their agents for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements and readers should rely on their own enquiries prior to making any decisions regarding their own health. Thanks to Gary Walton, Sherl Westlund, Pixie Hunt, Annie Shreeve, Jamie Cripps, Jake O’Brien, Andrew Walker, Murdoch Books Photography DWA staff, ambassadors and contributors, Shutterstock, Murdoch Books Design key2creative Print

Plan your sessions........................................................18

Research News Research Round-up......................................................20 Diabetes Research WA Update...................................21

In the Community Telethon Kid...................................................................22 Jamie and Jake.............................................................23 Q&A................................................................................24

Living Well Recognising Symptoms..............................................25 Driving and Diabetes....................................................26

Eating Well Navigating the Corporate Lunch.................................28 Healthy Lunchbox Recipes..........................................30

Moving Well

Quality Press

Tips for Desk Workers .................................................32

Diabetes WA www.diabeteswa.com.au Diabetes Information and Advice Line: 1300 001 880

Diabetes WA – Subiaco Office Level 3, 322 Hay Street, Subiaco WA 6008

Email: info@diabeteswa.com.au

Diabetes WA – Belmont Office 172 Campbell Street, Belmont WA 6104

Postal Address: PO Box 1699, Subiaco WA 6904

Postal Address: PO Box 726, Belmont WA 6984

Managing y our diabetes at work

Members’ Area Members’ Competition and Puzzle ...........................33 Member Partners .........................................................34

What’s on Dates for Your Diary .....................................................35

From the

President W

elcome to Spring! As we’ve worked towards all of the usual tasks of meeting end of financial year requirements Dr Moira Watson and positioning ourselves for the Diabetes WA President an d forthcoming year, we have been Board Chair conscious of our ongoing obligations as stewards of Diabetes WA. I am pleased to advise that our auditors, BDO Audit WA, have provided us with their Audit Completion Report for the 2016-17 financial year providing Diabetes WA with another clear result.

Our financial performance for the 2016-17 year was a surplus of some $460,808. This is a particularly pleasing result in a year which saw the organisation make the successful transition to the new National Diabetes Services Scheme contract in July 2016, establish several new contractual relationships for the supply of programs and services, launch its new Health HUB strategic vision, revise its Constitution and transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee on 13 June 2017. I take this opportunity to commend the management team, led by our CEO Andrew Wagstaff, on another outstanding year. That said, the challenges diabetes presents to Western Australia and to Diabetes WA are enormous. We dare not stand still for a moment.

Meet Our Team T

he articles in Diabetes Matters are informed by the wealth of knowledge contained within our organisation. Below are some of the talented DWA individuals who have contributed to this edition.

Rebecca Flavel – Manager Clinical Services. Accredited Practicing Dietitian and Credentialled Diabetes Educator. Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with a post-graduate degree in dietetics and diabetes.

The Board of Diabetes WA continue to be very active working with the management team to ensure our organisation is well placed to address the many challenges our Mission presents. As we move into the new financial year your Board has initiated several important projects that aim to examine future opportunities for our organisation to achieve the continual growth required to meet the challenges ahead. I look forward to bringing the outcomes of these projects to you in future editions of our magazine. For now, this edition of Diabetes Matters shines the light on diabetes in the workplace. When we leave home and head off to work we take our diabetes with us. We highlight the need, not just for workplace awareness, but also people with diabetes to have and maintain effective diabetes management plans for themselves while at work. This edition of our magazine is full of interesting articles, useful suggestions and advice to help us navigate these daily challenges. On page 16, you will find information about our upcoming Annual General Meeting, which will be taking place on 19 October at our Subiaco office. All members are invited to attend. You will also find a proxy voting form that you can use if you are unable to make it, along with profiles of our Board members that are standing for re-election.

Sarah Thomas – Human Resources Coordinator. Bachelor of Commerce in HR and Industrial Relations with a special interest in employment law and employee relations.

Until next time…

Dr Moira Watson President and Board Chair

•

Sheryl Moore – Accredited Practicing Dietitian and Credentialled Diabetes Educator. Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with a post-graduate degree in dietetics.

Perspective G

ary Walton, chartered accountant, sports and corporate consultant and Diabetes WA Board treasurer, is determined that his type 1 diabetes will not define him. He says he feels he has been lucky, generally only ever experiencing a positive response about his condition; with people showing support and empathy rather than fear when he mentions that he has diabetes. Here he discusses his experiences throughout his professional career, how he has managed his condition in the workplace over the years and how, for him, it is all about balance. My career can basically be divided into four ‘phases’. After graduating university I landed a job in one of the big four accounting firms. I worked in the professional services environment for six years and then moved to a biotechnology company whose primary business was oral delivery of large peptides – of which insulin is classified. I thought perhaps this was fate and they would ‘resolve’ my issues during my time with them and find a cure, but unfortunately, as history shows, that never eventuated. I then followed my passion into the health and sporting industry where I enjoyed a fulfilling yet highly-pressured career. My final phase was to go out on my own and I became a consultant. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12 and in the 45 years since my diagnosis – throughout my school years, on the recreational sporting field and while working in those different industries in Australia and around the world – I can count on one hand the number of times someone has made me feel uncomfortable about my condition and I know that those times were not intentional. I have always been up front about my diabetes and I think people haven’t been scared of the condition because I didn’t treat it as something to be scared of. I have never experienced any discrimination, only support and empathy when I needed it. Whilst at the Fremantle Football Club, it became a running joke, “Just give me five minutes,” I would say if someone announced that we were going to lunch. My colleagues would joke that Gary’s five minutes was never actually five minutes, but people were very accepting that I had to go and take my insulin. It then became almost a bit of a laugh – joking that “we have to wait for Gary again” rather than it being a taboo subject. Making a joke can ease the discomfort of an otherwise potentially awkward situation. I never wanted to be treated differently because of my health, albeit there were times when I had to be. Those times were rare but, like any other person living with diabetes, I have experienced low glucose levels at inopportune times and have needed help to treat it. No matter what environment I was in, I always ensured that I had access to glucose and that there was at least one or two people that understood diabetes and knew what was needed to help me if I got into trouble. They would know that I carried glucose, or where it was kept, and if I was acting oddly then that was what I needed. To this day I still take this approach.

As I have grown older I find that I am less fussed about treating my condition in front of people, but when I was young I had trouble doing injections – so my father would primarily give me my dose. Of course, then I only required one slow-release insulin injection a day with a large glass syringe and huge needle (relative to today), so we would do it at home. As delivery mechanisms of insulin changed, i.e. disposable syringes, my regime moved to more frequent administering of short-acting insulin so I would still find a quiet place and inject in privacy. Only as I got older (and going onto an insulin pump six years ago certainly helped) did I start to care less about what people think. I decided “it is what it is” and have found that people are more curious than disturbed and they don’t underestimate my ability because of my condition. Recently my son Jack, during a university internship at Accelus, was asked to write an article about someone who inspires him. He wrote about me, asking the question “Can you believe a man with type 1 diabetes can achieve all of this?” He wrote, “The one piece of advice I would give to anybody who has diabetes or any other condition is to take a leaf out of my Dad’s book and never use your condition as an excuse not to achieve your goals.” That is something I am very proud of. I remember waking up on my 50th birthday – some time ago now – and giving myself my insulin. I began reflecting on the fact that I had given myself or received more than 50,000 insulin injections and an equivalent number of finger pricks. As an accountant, I can recognise that those are some pretty impressive numbers. I think it is important to understand that with type 1 diabetes, you are in a constant balancing act. Whether it is balancing your levels, or the environment you are operating in, the food you should eat, or the insulin you need to take, managing your stress and fitting in exercise – all those factors have to balance, like a profit and loss statement.

Gary Walton Gary joined the Diabetes WA Board in 2010 and is currently the Board Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee. He was previously the Chief Operating Officer at the Fremantle Football Club and later the CEO of the WA Football Commission. Gary has had type 1 diabetes since he was 12 years old and has personally experienced the many challenges of diabetes management.

National Diabetes Week

ational Diabetes Week ran from July 9-15 and this year’s theme was It’s About Time – focusing on recognising early warning signs and encouraging people to act on them. Diabetes WA raised awareness of the symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, profiling stories told by people living with diabetes in WA and promoting the importance of early diagnosis. Read about how our ambassadors spread the message in the community from page 22. Take a look at our summary of the success of our communications campaign.

2017 Diabetes WA Corporate Lunch A

nother successful Diabetes WA Corporate Lunch took place on 8 September.

Members of Perth’s corporate community attended to network and hear guest speaker Ron Alexander, joint chairman of the steering committee for the new Perth Stadium, speak about the role that sport plays in individual and community wellbeing. He also shared his experiences in the sporting and corporate sectors. For a bit of fun at the end of the lunch, four lucky guests had the chance to go head to head with Aaron Sandliands of the Fremantle Dockers in a handballing competition. Aaron opened up about his thoughts on his future home ground – the new Perth Stadium.

he Australian Diabetes Society (ADS) and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) Annual Scientific Meeting brought together national and international experts to promote the exchange of the latest clinical practices and cutting-edge research in diabetes. Lectures, communication sessions and clinical and scientific educational symposiums were on offer at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on August 30 to September 1.

Sharing Knowledge: The Steno Diabetes Center

The Diabetes WA team had a lot planned for the three-day event:

Diabetes WA brought to Perth two researchers from the Diabetes Management Research group at the Steno Diabetes Center in Copenhagen to co-facilitate a workshop at the Annual Scientific Meeting and to share information and knowledge with our organisation.

• We hosted a dedicated booth sharing information about our health professional training, DESMOND workshops, NDSS products and services and more. • DWA Diabetes Educator and Dietitian Amanda Lee presented her technology oral on “Diabetes Telehealth: Bridging gaps in diabetes services in rural Western Australia through innovative technology”. • DWA Registered Nurse and Diabetes Educator Kylie Mahoney presented her self-management skills oral “DESMOND: Delivery of person-centred care from the participant perspective”. • DWA Diabetes Educator and Dietician Diane Ledger presented her self-management skills oral “DESMOND: Self-management planning is the goal”. • DWA Accredited Exercise Physiologist Marian Brennan presented her nutrition & exercise oral “Evaluation of a pilot group education workshop to reduce fear of exercise induced hypoglycaemia in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus”. • Deb Schofield, General Manager of Health Services at DWA, presented on “The cultural adaptations of DESMOND for the Aboriginal community”, alongside Helen Mitchell from Charles Darwin University.

The researchers, Dr Nana Hempler and Dr Annemarie Varming, have been collaborating with DWA’s health services operations manager Sophie McGough and the DESMOND team since April 2017 to design the workshop titled ‘What Does Person-Centred Care Really Look Like in Practice (and what it doesn’t)?.’ Professor Timothy Skinner of Charles Darwin University also presented at the workshop that focused on self-reflection, peer review and educational tools that support educators to have person-centred conversations. Building on the combined experience of the DESMOND Australia program and similar models from the Steno Diabetes Center, the workshop showcased common beliefs including respectful responsive health care, informed choice, shared decision-making, effective communication and consumers being valued as equal partners in health based on their own beliefs and life experience. GPS and practice nurses were invited to a second workshop the following week, hosted by the WA Primary Health Alliance, presented by both teams discussing person-centred care. The Diabetes Management Research group at the Steno Diabetes Center focuses on developing and evaluating research-based and innovative methods in patient education, social support for patients, and support related to work, life and chronic conditions. The research group has developed several patient education concepts that are based on the same philosophy as DESMOND Australia, including The Balancing Person and The Health Education Juggler. Dr Hempler and Dr Varming also spent time with the DWA team while they were here, including running a workshop with our Research and Evaluation team that outlined how they developed their models and how to best measure person-centred care. They also worked with our Health Services team to review the Steno Tools and to inspire discussions for future collaboration between the two organisations.

Dr Hempler presenting

It was not only one-way mentoring – the researchers soaked up our expertise, broadening their knowledge of quality development pathways and training of health professionals to ensure quality and fidelity in person-centred care.

Diabetes Educator June Lee gets ready for her close up

Telehealth now offering endocrinologist service Educators Kylie Mahoney and Sophie McGough also feature in the DESMOND video

Lights, Camera, Action

he education team at Diabetes WA have been busy rehearsing their lines for the filming of three new promotional videos for our DESMOND program.

he 23rd August saw endocrinologist Dr Gerry Fegan conduct his first Telehealth appointment with a client in Albany. The free clinic will operate from the Diabetes WA Subiaco office on the fourth Wednesday of each month and is available to regional patients who are unable to access an endocrinologist locally. With a GP referral, patients can link in from a local WA Country Health Service (WACHS) facility, GP surgery or their home via Scopia or Skype. Telehealth is funded by the WACHS Southern Inland Health Initiative and WA Primary Health Alliance.

Each video aims to educate a different audience; GPs – to encourage them to use DESMOND in their patient care plans; to allow people recently diagnosed to get a complete outline of their new condition, rather than trying to cover it in a 15-minute doctor’s appointment. Trainers – specifically designed to help those who are undergoing the DESMOND educators training, to recognise and initiate key behaviours in the groups they work with. People with diabetes – to outline what DESMOND is and to show them how the program can help them to manage their diabetes. The videos were launched on 28th August and are now available online. To find out more or to watch two of the videos, visit our website.

Dr Gerry Fegan

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

A Balancing Act Managing diabetes at work P

eople living with diabetes sometimes face discrimination in the workplace simply because others do not understand diabetes and how it is managed.

The word diabetes can lead employers to concerns about reliability and productivity, thereby influencing their willingness to hire, continue to employ or promote a person living with diabetes. Also co-workers who lack information about the condition can feel uncertain about how to treat their colleagues who are testing their blood glucose, administering insulin or treating hypoglycaemia throughout the work day.

It is not uncommon for people living with diabetes to conceal their condition from their employer and colleagues in order to avoid negative reactions or discrimination. As a result, an insulin injection may be missed, a blood glucose test forgotten or a meal postponed, consequently jeopardising overall health and perhaps safety on the job. It is important that everyone in the workplace has accurate information about diabetes and how it is managed.

Overcoming challenges Millions of people with diabetes refuse to let it get in the way of their careers, and there’s no reason why anyone should. Diabetes may present some working day challenges. Knowing how to manage these is the key. The more you know about your diabetes, and the more you know about controlling your blood glucose levels, the better off you’ll be. You will also be better prepared to deal with any work situations that arise, including explaining your condition to others if you decide to.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

Plan your food

Testing and treating

Everyone is short of time in the morning but breakfast is still a very important meal, particularly on a working day. Depending on your medication, skipping breakfast can lead to dangerously low blood glucose levels, and can affect safety and performance at work.

Depending on how you manage your diabetes, you might need to test your blood glucose levels while you are at work or administer insulin.

A healthy breakfast will help set the tone for a productive working day. It’s also important to have a healthy lunch in mind. This will help your energy levels and concentration stay high throughout the day. You may choose to take a packed lunch and snacks to work. (see page 30 for some office lunch ideas) This way you know exactly what you’re going to be eating and you can eat it whenever you are ready to. If you choose to buy your lunch, whether the food comes from a sandwich bar, work canteen or cafe, there will always be some choices that are better than others. Try to go for the healthier choices: a lunch that includes some fruit or vegetables and that is low in salt, sugar and fat.

Because all workplaces are different, there’s no set advice given on where to do tests and jabs. It should be done where the person feels most comfortable, and the toilet is less than ideal for hygiene reasons. Some people who work in offices may do it at their desk, others may prefer the canteen, or some may prefer a private area.

Diabetes management plan Your individual diabetes management and care plan should include a section on work. It is recommended that you discuss the detail of your work with the members of your diabetes health team. Below is a list of items to consider: • Negotiate a place that is easily accessible to check your BGLs and to store your meter.

Honesty is the best policy A

Danish study has found that people with type 2 diabetes should tell their employers about their condition for ‘optimal self-management’ during work hours. The study, conducted by the Steno Diabetes Centre in Copenhagen, involved data from 720 people who had all been living with type 2 diabetes for eight years. The participants were asked to complete a questionnaire about whether their employer and colleagues knew they had type 2 diabetes. A total of 77 per cent of people admitted they had told their employer about their diabetes and 87 per cent said they had told a colleague. Those who had taken at least 10 days off sick or used injectable therapies were most likely to disclose their diabetes to their employer.

• If you require insulin, work out how and where to safely store your insulin and have a clean and private place to use it. • Know your entitlements and rights about time off to attend medical appointments. • Make insulin and food intake adjustments that take account of increased physical activity as part of your job. • Ensure you can safely dispose of your sharps and medical waste. • Work on ways to remove/reduce workplace stress. • Plan to deal with shift work including menu and snack plans while on night duty. • Plan for travelling or an overseas posting. • Have a sick day plan in place. • Update your plan if there are episodes of hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia.

Some questions to consider: • Do you openly talk about your diabetes at work?

The study found that: “In most jobs, disclosure of diabetes at the workplace is not a legal obligation but is necessary for optimal self-management during work hours. Non-disclosure may lead to impaired self-management behaviours, such as adverse eating, inexpedient consumption of medication, delayed glucose monitoring or delayed management of hypoglycaemia.”

• Should you mention your diabetes during the interview process?

More research is planned to further explore the impact of divulging a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes at work.

• Do you feel you have enough time at work to manage your diabetes?

• Have you taught any of your colleagues how to handle a diabetes emergency situation? • Do you keep back up insulin at work?

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

Rights in the workplace I

n Australia, it is illegal for a prospective employer to not employ you because you have diabetes unless there is good evidence that diabetes would prevent you from adequately performing the genuine and reasonable requirements of the position.

WA Police

Federal law says that it is against the law to discriminate against people, or treat them unfairly, in various areas of public life. One of these areas is employment.

Type 1 diabetes

Telling your employer While not compulsory, it is advisable to declare your diabetes to your employer. If you don’t, you may not be eligible for workers’ compensation. They can then make allowances for any extra breaks you need or changes in shifts. People with diabetes have legal protection in the workplace under disability discrimination laws, within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, even though people with diabetes may not describe their condition as a disability. Some jobs have special health rules meaning diabetes would need to be disclosed – see below. However, most jobs have no legal requirement for this. Deciding whether to tell employers or colleagues is a matter of personal choice.

Senior Recruitment Officer at the WA Police Marlise Cole, quotes the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency guidelines for employment with the WA Police Force:

1. It is recommended that a specialist report is provided outlining that the applicant’s diabetes is stable and well controlled. The report should outline that there have been no hypoglycaemic events in the last twelve months, and no organ damage. A HbA1c of eight or less over a period of twelve months is also recommended, as it demonstrates that the applicant is controlling their condition and understands the seriousness of the risks associated with the condition. 2. It is also recommended that regular annual check-ups should be undertaken by successful applicants, and a HbA1c of eight or less should be maintained.

Type 2 diabetes It is recommended that the standard and requirements for diabetes type 2 should be identical to the standards recommended for diabetes type 1.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

Department of Fire and Emergency Services The firefighter recruitment page of the DFES website includes the following information: “Applicants are required to undertake a medical assessment as part of the recruitment process. There are some conditions that may impact on an applicant’s suitability or preclude them from gaining a position due to the potential impact of that condition. All applicants are considered on a case by case basis, taking into consideration the severity of the condition etc. The following medical conditions may preclude a person from being successful or may require significant detailed assessment: • Diabetes Mellitus • Asthma • Joint replacements • Degenerative arthritis • Some colour vision deficiencies • Hearing loss • Vision loss If an applicant has a condition that may affect their suitability, it is highly recommended they obtain detailed information from their specialist regarding the history and nature of the condition, along with any impacts it may have. This will assist the occupational physician in the final assessment.”

St John Ambulance St John Ambulance employment information packs do not specifically mention any medical conditions and simply states: “The Functional Capacity and Medical Assessment is designed to assess your physical capability to undertake the requirements of the role. Work as an Ambulance Officer requires a good level of physical fitness.” The Queensland Department of Health Ambulance Service website provides more specific information within their Paramedic/Patient Transport Officer (PTO) Medical Standards: “Individuals suffering diabetes mellitus may be considered for employment as a Paramedic/PTO. Some special conditions may need to be considered with regard to geographical placements and/or shift type e.g. placed in a larger station with day/night shift operations, requirement to work as a dual paramedic response and no on call emergency availability.”

Some advice from our resident expert D

WA Human Resources Coordinator Sarah Thomas, has some tips;

• If you’re seeking employment, look for organisations that advertise being Equal Opportunity Employers. They are saying they will not discriminate against employees due to race, sex, physical or mental disability or age. • Employers should do everything within reason to provide a safe and supportive working environment, accommodating for employees who have a chronic illness. • There are various forms of governing legislation to refer to including Disability Discrimination Act 1992, Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986. • As an employee you have a responsibility to do everything within reason to prevent your illness from reducing your productivity. • Employers and employees both have a duty to make sure people are fit for work and are able to perform their duties safely.

Sarah’s Suggestions • Be open and honest with your employer from the beginning to ensure everyone is on the same page. Then keep communication open – let them know how you’re going. • Make sure you are providing a safe working environment for yourself, don’t put your health at risk in the workplace. • You don’t have to do it alone! Allow your colleagues and employer to support you. • Seek advice if you feel you are being discriminated against.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

Working from home

f you are finding it hard to manage your diabetes in an office environment, then maybe the answer is to have your work come to you. Perhaps telecommuting or starting a home business might suit you better?

There are many advantages to working from home, such as taking downtime whenever you want, eating healthier food for less money and wearing comfortable clothes. You can save time, money, and stress by not having to commute and you can be your own boss, with no one watching over your shoulder. For people with diabetes, there are additional advantages. To stay healthy, you need to eat on a relatively regular schedule. You need breaks to rest and sometimes to check blood sugars or inject insulin and you might need to snack if blood sugar is getting low. As discussed, managers do not always like these self-care actions or allow them, but at home they can’t stop you. A 2011 survey by the office supply store Staples found that employees who worked from home experienced 25% less stress. Employees also reported that they were able to maintain a better work-life balance and eat healthier. Of course, telecommuting or working from home in your own business is not for everybody. You can’t do construction or plumbing or waitressing from home, among other things. Even if you can physically do your job from home, you might miss the human contact of the office environment and beware of

distractions! If you find yourself taking too many breaks to wash dishes or watch TV, working from home may not be for you. Another issue can be, that when you work from home, you are always at work. It is important to create a separate workspace. If your ‘desk’ is your coffee table in front of the television set; and your children, friends, and neighbours have full access to your workspace, you are not going to achieve as much. There are also legal considerations if you do decide to become your own boss. You are responsible for your own taxes and accounting so it is important to speak to a financial advisor to make sure you don’t make any errors with your business management. Construct a detailed business plan and make sure to analyse and prepare for every possible outcome and scenario. If your diabetes is causing issues for you in your workplace, consider talking to your manager, your diabetes educator or people within your support network to get advice before making the decision to jump straight into working from home. Many people find the change ideal, but a trial period might be a good way to start. Alternatively start with a day or two at home each week, if it is an option that is available to you, so you can decide whether working solo is for you.

Planning for retirement

or many reasons, you may be feeling like it is time to retire. Whether it is related to your diabetes or you have just decided you have had enough of the daily grind, transitioning to a retired life can take some adjustment. If you feel you need to retire because of deteriorations in your health due to your diabetes, or treatment changes are required, it is good to get advice to make sure you are adequately supported in your decision. Seeking professional help about access to superannuation, insurance and disability payments BEFORE you take action is essential. During this time of change from paid work to retirement, you may need to plan, gather information, make personal choices and seek help. This may involve attending retirement planning seminars or consulting financial advisers including Centrelink.

In addition to attending to financial and insurance matters, you may also require emotional help to cope with these changes in your life. Discuss these matters with your doctor and/or diabetes educator as they can refer you to services and resources. For example, your local doctor can refer you to Medicare-funded services including psychologists, social workers and credentialled diabetes educators. You can also contact Diabetes WA for information about resources and services.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

How to treat a hypo Hypoglycaemia Hypoglycaemia (hypo) occurs in people with diabetes when their blood glucose level has dropped too low and they are demonstrating any of the symptoms below; • Weakness, trembling or shaking • Sweating • Dizziness/light-headedness • Tearful/crying/irritability • Numbness/ tingling around lips and fingers • Rapid pulse • Slurred speech • Lack of coordination/unsteady • Loss of consciousness • Convulsions/fitting

Conscious & Alert The person is conscious and able to swallow

STEP 1 Give one serve of 15g of fast-acting sugary food or drink, such as: • 6-7 jellybeans OR • ½ can of regular soft drink (not ‘diet’) OR • ½ glass of fruit juice OR • 3 teaspoons of sugar or honey OR glucose tablets equivalent to 15 grams carbohydrate. Chocolate can be used, however, fat in chocolate slows down how quickly the sugar gets broken down, so use sugary foods without fat where possible.

STEP 2 Get the person to eat a snack or meal with longer acting carbohydrate such as: • • • •

1 slice of bread OR 1 glass of milk OR 1 piece of fruit OR 2-3 pieces of dried apricots, figs or other dried fruit OR • 1 tub of natural low fat yoghurt OR • Pasta or rice

After 10 minutes, if symptoms persist repeat Step 1.

Unconscious If a person with diabetes is unconscious, drowsy or unable to swallow – THIS IS AN EMERGENCY. DO NOT GIVE ANY FOOD OR DRINK

STEP 1 Place in the recovery position (on their side). Check airway.

STEP 2 CALL 000. Stay with the person until the ambulance arrives.

If you know the person has a Glucagon needle for such emergencies, and you have been trained to use it, give it.

Cut out or photocopy this guide and display in your staff room or include it on the staff information board at work.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

It’s all about balance

s mentioned earlier in our feature, sometimes the trickiest thing about managing diabetes in the workplace, and keeping yourself healthy, can be time management. It can be challenging not only finding the time to treat your condition when in the office or on site, but also finding the time to plan healthy meals, to fit in exercise and to stay motivated to make healthy choices. The average working adult spends at least one third of their day at work. As such, the workplace is becoming an increasingly important place when it comes to developing healthy behaviours. Research shows that employee health is integral to staff productivity and happiness at work. Diabetes WA offers a number of programs specifically created for those who are time-poor and find the support of friends or colleagues helpful when trying to stay healthy. And they are programs that everyone can use – not only people living with diabetes.

Get on Track Challenge The Get on Track Challenge is a free, online program that pits teams against each other in a race around a virtual track. You and your teammates – be they family, friends or work colleagues – will be encouraged to complete at least 30 minutes of physical activity and eat two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables each day. How many team members achieve this goal, and how often, will determine how quickly your team progresses along the virtual track, which explores some of Western Australia’s beautiful landscape. You will be racing against other teams that have also registered and, along with the bragging rights, there are great prizes to be won. Diabetes WA coordinates several official challenges every year that run for six weeks, however, you can create your own challenges for your friends and workplaces at any time.

The Get on Track Challenge is a component of the WA Healthy Workers initiative which is jointly funded by the Western Australian and Australian Governments and has been motivating people to live a healthier lifestyle since 2008. Ashley Schofield, Auditor at Water Corporation, participated in a Get on Track Challenge with his colleagues, in a team of four, earlier this year. As his job is desk-based he found it great to be involved in a workplace initiative that got him moving. “It really motivated me,” he said. “The competition that developed with my colleagues to progress along the track was great fun and made it easy to eat healthier and to do some exercise.” The next official Diabetes WA Challenge starts on 9 October, but you can also create your own by visiting diabeteswa.com.au/prevention.

DIABETES INTHE WORKPLACE

My Healthy Balance If team challenges aren’t your thing, or you are finding it hard to get a team together, then there is an alternative for those busy workers who need some motivation to get or stay healthy.

Are you responsible for implementing health and wellness programs across your workplace? Register your workplace in an Official Diabetes WA Challenge and watch how teams within your workplace compete against each other and other workplaces around WA. You could even create a challenge specific to your workplace’s needs and see which team wins. You’ll be able to track how many people sign up with your workplace and see their progress through the challenge. You will also be building team cohesion and workplace morale.

Designed by health professionals, My Healthy Balance is a free online program that equips you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about your health and helps you to sustain healthy changes in the long term. You can complete the program at your own pace over a four, six, eight or twelve week period. Once you have created an account you build your health profile, assessing how much exercise you really need to do and discover whether you are meeting the recommended guidelines for fruit and vegetable intake. We then guide you through setting yourself goals and creating a solid action plan. We help you to stick to your plan and you can choose your level of support, including an opt-in system to receive motivational emails and text messages, or you can find community support through social media.

Along the way you learn from the experts through a series of interactive modules, taking approximately 10 minutes to complete, and focusing on healthy eating, physical activity, healthy weight maintenance and other topics relevant to leading a healthy life. In addition to the core topics, the program also contains three diabetes-specific modules. These modules are specifically tailored to individuals living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes. And you can get your workplace involved too. You can register to send invites to your employees to participate and track how many people register and their progress through the program. You will be provided with tools to help you promote the program in your workplace and be supported by the My Healthy Balance team to maximise the impact of the program. To find out more, visit myhealthybalance.com.au or visit the prevention page on the Diabetes WA website and follow the links.

Winners are grinners T

hey might be on their feet all day, but that didn’t stop four Pingelly Health Centre co-workers from going the extra mile for the Get on Track Great Southern challenge. Pat Kirk said she and her close-knit colleagues signed up for the official Diabetes WA competition in May to have fun and “hopefully lose some weight”. But they achieved much more than that. The group of women (under the name ‘Over 50s’) together trekked more than 2243kms in just six weeks to take out first place in the competition. They received the first prize of a $50 Rebel Sport voucher each, but Ms Kirk said that wasn’t her personal highlight.

“The best part was weight loss and competing against other teams,” she said. “For a couple of us the increase in fruit and vegetables provided energy and we felt more able to be active.” “Motivation to achieve the goal ensured that we made time just for us.” “Other staff were talking and participating in the challenge so we older members of staff decided to participate. It has made us more aware of the importance of small lifestyle changes.”

Standing: Sandra Websdale (left) &d Pat Kirk. Sitting: Sherryle Brain (left) & Laurel Evenis

Notice of Diabetes WA

2017 Annual General Meeting Notice is given that the 2017 Annual General Meeting of the members of Diabetes WA Ltd (Diabetes WA) will be held; Date:

Thursday 19 October 2017

Time:

5.30pm (WST)

Venue: Diabetes WA – Level 3, 322 Hay Street, Subiaco

Agenda: 1. Financial statements and reports To receive and consider the financial report, the directors’ report and the auditors’ report for the financial year ended 30 June 2017.

2. Re-election of directors To consider and if thought fit, pass the following ordinary resolutions as separate ordinary resolutions: (a) to re-elect Dr Moira Watson as a director of Diabetes WA; (b) to re-elect Tony Lester as a director of Diabetes WA; (c) to re-elect Jim Dodds as a director of Diabetes WA; and (d) to re-elect Mary Anne Stephens as a director of Diabetes WA.

3. Appointment of auditors To consider and if thought fit, pass the following ordinary resolution: That BDO Audit (WA) Pty Ltd be appointed under section 327B(1) of the Corporations Act 2001, as auditors of Diabetes WA. RSVP (for catering purposes) to Sara Calginari on (08) 9436 6209 or sara.calginari@diabeteswa.com.au by Friday 13 October 2017. Any member who has not RSVP’d is still welcome to attend. By order of the Board:

Andrew Wagstaff Chief Executive Officer 12 September 2017

Diabetes WA Ltd ACN 610 729 612

Explanatory notes These explanatory notes have been prepared to provide members with sufficient information to assess the merits of the resolutions contained in the accompanying notice of Annual General Meeting of Diabetes WA to be held at Level 3, 322 Hay Street on Thursday, 19 October 2017 at 5.30pm (WST).

1. Financial statements and reports

2. Re-election of directors

Section 317 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act) requires the last financial year’s financial report, the directors’ report and the auditor’s report to be laid before the annual general meeting.

Each of the directors standing for re-election will retire at the Annual General Meeting and stand for re-election in accordance with Diabetes WA’s constitution.

There is no requirement either in the Corporations Act or in Diabetes WA’s constitution for members to approve the financial report, the directors’ report or the auditor’s report. Members will be given the opportunity at the meeting to ask questions and comment on these reports

The Board (other than those standing for re-election) recommends members vote in favour of the resolution to re-elect the following directors. The directors standing for re-election do not make a recommendation due to their personal interest in resolution.

(a) Re-election of Dr Moira Watson as a director of Diabetes WA Moira is currently the President and Chair of the Diabetes WA Board. Elected as President in 2009, Moira has led and worked with the Directors and Management to steer the organisation towards a viable and sustainable future that is attuned to the needs of Western Australians affected by diabetes. Moira is the Associate Dean Quality Standards and Accreditation and the MBA Academic Chair in the School of Business at Murdoch University. Moira is an experienced company Chair and Director on a range of Boards with a background as a senior leader in ASX listed companies and as an executive director in government. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, and holds a PhD in business management Moira also contributes to the Diabetes cause nationally as a Director on the Board of Diabetes Australia Limited. As a delegate to the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region, Moira ensures the diabetes message is taken to the global community. (b) Re-election of Tony Lester as a director of Diabetes WA Tony Lester is a Partner of Lester Blades, a Western Australian executive search and recruitment firm. Tony has worked in executive search and selection for over 25 years and has in this time completed a large number of national and international executive searches across a broad range of industries and sectors. He is an executive search and selection generalist recruiting at C level through to senior line management. Tony has a Bachelor of Economics degree from The University of Western Australia, is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management. Tony and one of his children have Type 1 Diabetes.

(c) Re-election of Jim Dodds as a director of Diabetes WA Jim Dodds is Director of Environmental Health of the Public Health Division within the Department of Health Western Australia. Jim has been active in the field of environment and health for over thirty years, having worked in various Australian State and Local Governments. He has also worked on the international scene as the Environmental Health Advisor to the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, a development agency representing 23 Pacific Island Nations in the Pacific Ocean as well as with AusAID on HIV programs in Mozambique. Jim’s career and professional life have been focused on the complex issues of the interaction of communities with their environment, especially rapidly growing urban communities. He has just been elected Chair of the Australian Environmental Health Committee, known as enHealth Council, which is the group overseeing the Australian health sectors response to climate change adaptation. His initial qualifications are in Environmental Health, with Post Graduate qualifications in Engineering Science, Public Health and Occupational Health. (d) Re-election of Mary Anne Stephens as a director of Diabetes WA Mary Anne is a senior executive and NED with more than 25 years’ experience leading teams within the financial services, IT and not-forprofit sectors in Australia and the United States; she is currently the Chief Financial Officer for Amana Living Inc. Mary Anne is a Non-Executive Director of Diabetes WA, a Board Member of VenuesWest and a Board Member of the WA Country Health Service (WACHS). Further she is an external member of the Football West Finance & Audit Sub-committee. She holds a Master of Accounting degree, is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

3. Appointment of auditors BDO Audit (WA) Pty Ltd was first appointed in 2009. Diabetes WA seeks member support for the appointment of BDO Audit (WA) Pty Ltd as the auditors of Diabetes WA. The Board are satisfied that BDO’s Audit Partner Rotation Policy complies with professional audit standards.

17 17

Education Planner The Smart Series Diabetes WA runs a number of education programs, held as two-to three-hour workshops, to help you manage your diabetes and improve your health.

SEPTEMBER 2017 Sun

Sat

Fri

Thu

Wed

Tue

Mon

Subiaco

ShopSmart – this supermarket tour helps you decode food labels ('Classroom' format also available). FootSmart – everything you need to know about caring for your feet. MeterSmart – master the art of blood glucose monitoring. CarbSmart – unravel the mystery of carbohydrates with this carb counting masterclass. MedSmart – everything you need to know about your medications.

Formerly known as the ‘Pump Information Evening’, this session is aimed at people with type 1 diabetes over the age of 18. Come along to learn about pumps, CGM’s and flash monitoring. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from someone currently using one of these devices, discuss the options with a Diabetes Educator and meet with insulin pump, continual glucose monitoring and flash monitoring company representatives. When: Tuesday, 17 October 2017 Time: Arrive 5.45pm for 6.00pm start, finish 8.00pm Where: Diabetes WA, 172 Campbell Street, Belmont Cost: Free – Bookings essential, call 1300 001 880.

Mirrabooka / Bunbury Hospital

South Hedland

OCTOBER 2017 Wed

Tue

Type 1 17 Technology Night

Caversham

Belmont

Subiaco

Centenary Park

Subiaco

Morley

Forrestfield

30 (Classroom) Melville

Belmont

Melville

Mandurah

Subiaco

Mirrabooka

Subiaco

Sun

Sat

Fri

Greenwood

Riverton

Belmont

Thu

Belmont

Wanneroo

Mon

Forrestfield

Type 1 Technology Night

Melville

High Wycombe

Subiaco

Caversham

Mirrabooka

Melville

Belmont

Mirrabooka

17 October

(Classroom) Wanneroo

Belmont

Cockburn

Subiaco

DESMOND One day workshop DESMOND – Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed is a program designed to equip those living with type 2 diabetes with the knowledge and skills to better manage their condition. DESMOND can help you achieve lower HbA1C, weight reduction, greater physical activity, reduced diabetes distress and better overall health outcomes. DESMOND will commence running workshops in the Pilbara from November 2. Visit our website for more information.

Diabetes WA offers a 15 per cen t discount on health professional train ing and updates to members.

Telehealth The Diabetes Telehealth Service for Country WA is available to those living out of the metropolitan area. One-on-one appointments via video-conferencing can be arranged through your doctor, or contact Diabetes WA on 1300 001 880.

NOVEMBER 2017 Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu 1

Fri

Melville

Subiaco

(Classroom) Caversham

Mirrabooka

Dianella

Melville

Upskilling for health professionals in country WA The Diabetes Telehealth Service upskilling sessions are typically 1–2 hours in duration and are easily accessed via a desk top computer. The sessions cover a wide range of diabetes-related topics such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes retinopathy and gestational diabetes. To find out more or to register for any upcoming sessions go to our website.

Rockingham

Centenary Park

Subiaco

Wanneroo

4 Belmont

Tom Price

Forrestfield

Sun

South Hedland

Wanneroo

Sat

Belmont

Forrestfield Melville

Fremantle

Subiaco

Key

DECEMBER 2017 Sun

Sat

Fri

Thu

Wed

Tue

Mon

Subiaco

Rockingham

Forrestfield

Riverton

12 (Classroom) Belmont

Melville

South Hedland Subiaco

Tom Price

(Classroom) Subiaco

ShopSmart FootSmart

MeterSmart Belmont

Belmont

Mandurah

CarbSmart MedSmart DESMOND

Subiaco

For more information or to book into any of these workshops, visit diabeteswa.com.au, call 1300 001 880 or email bookings@diabeteswa.com.au 19

Research Round Up The latest in diabetes research

It’s great news for

mice

US researchers say they have cured type 1 diabetes in mice without any side effects, by using a virus as a carrier to introduce insulin-producing genes into the pancreas so they secreted insulin, but only in response to glucose – mimicking the behaviour of the body’s beta cells.

It’s good news for

young people addicted to their mobile phones According to NZ researchers – who stressed that good self-care habits need to be reinforced to prevent complications developing in adulthood – mobile health (mHealth) tools such as text messaged tips, can be valuable for young people with diabetes, particularly for those who lack confidence in self-care.

It’s bad news for

people that live in Kwinana A WA Today series on the health of different suburbs in Perth found that Kwinana–West has the highest rate of adults with diabetes and highest rate of early death from diabetes in WA.

Possible explanation for vascular complications risk in diabetes G erman researchers have unlocked a previously unknown mechanism as to why people with diabetes have a higher risk of long-term complications.

Scientists have identified inflammatory processes in the liver which increase cholesterol in people with diabetes. This, researchers believe, could promote the development of vascular diseases. They also discovered a molecule called GAbp (GA-binding protein) which provides a protective effect against vascular diseases, and could be important in preventing complications. “Our data suggest that the liver plays a key role in the development of common diabetic vascular diseases,” said Dr Katharina Niopek, researcher at the Institute for Diabetes and Cancer at Helmholtz Zentrum Minchen. “GAbp appears to be a molecular regulator between inflammation, cholesterol absorption and atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque within the arteries). Without its protective effect, this leads to high cholesterol levels and increased plaque deposits in the arteries.” The researchers had aimed to identify why people with diabetes who have

good blood glucose control were still at a higher risk of complications compared to those without the condition. They examined inflammatory processes in type 2 diabetes and obesity, which both contribute to long-term complications, and demonstrated that inflammation caused by metabolic disorders such as diabetes increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the liver. When ROS production is heightened, this prevents GAbp from working, leading to greater levels of cholesterol and symptoms of vascular disease. “Since initial patient data supported our findings, the new signalling pathway – regardless of how well the blood glucose levels of the patient are controlled – may be a key component in the development of long-term diabetes complications. Identifying this could help with treatment options,” added lead author Professor Stephan Herzig. Source: diabetes.co.uk

A Vaccine for type 1 diabetes is headed for human trials in 2018 A fter 25 years of dedicated research, a potential vaccine for type 1 diabetes developed in Finland is headed for human clinical trials. It has been suggested, for quite some as the team has created a prototype time now, that type 1 diabetes could vaccine which will move into human be related to viral infection, which has clinical trials by 2018. led some to propose the possibility of While it’s unlikely, as the team notes, creating a vaccine for the disease. that the vaccine would become an In Finland, researchers have been immediate cure-all for type 1 diabetes, exploring this connection and potential if the trials prove successful in vaccine for approximately 25 years. preventing the onset of the condition, After such a laborious scientific journey, it will dramatically shift the future of they believe they’ve found the viral the disease. group that can trigger the condition. Source: futurism.com The hard work seems to have paid off

Please note: The information on this page is a snapshot of the latest advances in diabetes research. Please keep in mind that research findings will not necessarily apply to your individual situation and this information should not be used to make decisions about treatment and management without the input of a health professional.

Be Aware of the Warning Signs by Diabetes Research WA Executive Director Sherl Westlund

e are excited about the advances being made in diabetes research in WA and below we share two recent successes. Having also recently welcomed a new Board Chairman and a number of new Board members, we are buoyant about the future and welcome the opportunity to chat with anyone keen to help support or fund our life-changing research in any way.

‘Fire-fighting’ protein holds hope Hopes are growing that some of our funded WA researchers may be on the brink of discovering a new Vance Matthews way to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes – and the development may also give rise to a new way to tackle type 1 diabetes. The latest findings into a protein involved in the body’s immune system (TNFSF14) confirms that in mice fed a high-fat diet, the protein plays a role in helping to stop the body developing obesity and type 2 diabetes. “Our work uncovers for the first time that when these mice start to show signs of metabolic syndrome – which includes high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels – TNFSF14 levels are elevated as a response to these conditions,” said lead researcher Vance Matthews. “TNFSF14 is trying to fight the first flames of the fire so to speak and we know this because mice on a high-fat diet who are deficient in the protein develop increased obesity, glucose intolerance and impaired insulin sensitivity which can lead to type 2 diabetes. “Excitingly, we also showed that TNFSF14 treatment can directly promote insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells so it may also give rise to new ways to tackle type 1 diabetes in cases where the patient still has beta cells left.” The group’s work, which was just presented at the Australian Diabetes Society Meeting, shows that adipose tissue and the liver are key sources of TNFSF14, as are hematopoietic cells

(cells within the bone marrow that produce cells that circulate in the blood). The next step for the team is to design compounds that can activate TNFS14 receptors and test them in select human cells with the ultimate hoping being to find an alternative to current anti-obesity drugs, which have not resulted in consistent and effective weight loss.

Eye disease advance One of our funded studies has led to the development of a better method for studying diabetic eye disease, paving the way for testing drugs that can help preserve sight. “In studying blood vessel structure in mice retinas, Dr Lois Balmer we came up against a hurdle in that some particularly fragile retinal samples could not be examined using a well-established technique known as the trypsin digest method,” said lead researcher, Dr Lois Balmer from WA’s Centre for Diabetes Research. “In order to overcome this issue, we fine-tuned the technique which then enabled us to study these fragile samples and find a number of lesions paving the way for detection of retinal vascular changes early in a disease process.” One form of retinal disease that is increasing is diabetic retinopathy, which can affect people with all forms of diabetes, and is the leading cause of acquired vision loss worldwide in middle-aged people. In its early stages, there are often no noticeable symptoms, making eye checks critical.

For more information, please visit diabetesresearchwa.com.au or call (08) 9224 1006.

Telethon kid turns baker I

t’s been 14 years since Western Australia fell in love with 2003 Telethon child Annie Shreeve, but she remembers it like it was yesterday. “I have a box filled with all the original video tapes, newspaper clippings, autographs, scripts ... I kept absolutely everything,” Annie, 26, said with a laugh. Annie recalled it was both exciting and “a little bit scary” to appear on live TV. “It was pretty overwhelming at 12 years of age to suddenly be surrounded by flashing lights and TV stars and all the rest of it,” she said. “At the time, I desperately wanted to meet Dr Harry (Cooper). I don’t know if he was the coolest celebrity there, but he was just lovely.” Annie, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was eight, was one of Diabetes WA’s ambassadors for National Diabetes Week this year. After graduating from university and travelling the world, avid baker Annie started her own cake business The Flour Press. Annie said people often find it ironic that she makes cakes and has diabetes, which she partly agreed with but said “I just make them.” “I don’t let diabetes stop me or restrict me from anything I want to do. I still taste everything, because it comes with the job. Diabetic or not, you have to learn to do that in the industry I’m in, otherwise it would be a disaster.” Annie said it had been more than a decade since she was recognised on the street. “The couple of years after my Telethon aired, I would occasionally get someone say ‘I know you … but I can’t pick exactly why’,” she said. “That’s the thing. If you just looked at me, you couldn’t know I have diabetes. I think that threw a lot of people off.”

Annie Shreeve

Annie said she refused to let diabetes control her life. “I have good days and bad days,” she admitted. “There were times when I was younger and thinking ‘This isn’t fair. Why did I get lumped with this?’ “But in the long run, in the grand scheme of things, it’s probably led to healthier life choices. “I am very aware of what I consume, what I put in my body. Ultimately, your health is completely irreplaceable. That said, I don’t want diabetes to let anyone feel restricted in their life or what they want to achieve. You just need to run your health parallel with your life.”

Jamie and Jake – Today Tonight K

icking the footy with West Coast Eagles forward Jamie Cripps at Domain Stadium was an experience 16-year-old Jake O’Brien won’t soon forget.

The aspiring athlete joined forces with the sporting star to film a story for Channel Seven’s Today Tonight to raise awareness of Diabetes WA’s campaign during National Diabetes Week. Jamie, a Diabetes WA ambassador, and Jake, who recently ran his first half marathon for Diabetes WA in the HBF Run for a Reason, are both living with type 1 diabetes and together they want to inspire people to take the condition head on. The segment explored how Jamie’s success has inspired Jake – and countless other young people with type 1 diabetes across Australia – not to let diabetes stop them from achieving their dreams. Jake said it was an honour to meet the 132-game AFL campaigner. “Someone like Jamie is very inspirational. He proves that diabetes isn’t going to hold you back.” Before the cameras started rolling, Jamie gave Jake a personal tour of the stadium

and they exchanged tips on how they managed their diabetes while leading an active lifestyle.

in the three-minute segment which was watched by almost 1 million people across WA.

Jamie opened up about his diabetes diagnosis. “I was 18 at the time,” he said, “I got really crook for a couple of weeks and lost 10kgs in weight. At the time it was pretty serious.”

Watch the Today Tonight segment on our website – diabeteswa.com.au/jamieandjake

“During games I test my blood at quarter time, half time, three-quarter time and after the game to see how my blood glucose levels are going.” If Domain Stadium was at capacity three times over, that would represent the number of people currently diagnosed with diabetes in Western Australia. Both Jamie and Jake encouraged people to be vigilant, but also reminded them that diabetes shouldn’t hold them back. “It shouldn’t stop you from doing what you want to do in life,” Jamie said. Diabetes WA Health Service Operations Manager Sophie McGough also featured

Celebrating Kellions

ourteen Kellion Victory Awards were presented at a special morning tea held during National Diabetes Week. The Awards celebrate people who have been living with diabetes for 50, 60, 70, and more recently 75 years, and their carers. A number of the recipients told their story to the media following the event, including Pixie Hind who said that being diagnosed was one of the “best things that ever happened” to her. Here is her story.

Pixie and Peter Hind

Diagnosis finds love Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes just a couple of months before her 16th birthday led Pixie Hind, 69, to the love of her life. “I know that might sound strange,” she said with a laugh. “But, if it wasn’t for diabetes, I would never have met my husband.” The actress and playwright recalled how diabetes brought her and her husbandof-51-years Peter together back in 1963. “In those days they used to pop newly-diagnosed people in hospital until we at least learned to give ourselves a needle, especially the young ones,” she said. “The first 36 hours I was having trouble, I couldn’t stick this needle into my leg.

Q& Q A

“My father came to see me in hospital and said: ‘Darling, the day you give yourself that needle, I will give you anything in the world that you want’.” Mrs Hind asked for either a nylon fur stole, or for her father to find someone her own age to go to The Royal Show with, so she could go on the rides. “Of course, the next day I managed to give myself the needle.” Mrs Hind said her father “took the cheapest option” and asked Peter, his friend’s son, to accompany her to The Royal Show. “And that was our first date,” she said. “We were joined at the wrist from then on.” The pair went on to marry and have two children.

I’m a bit confused about the ‘rules’ around fruit. Why is it OK to eat fruit when it’s full of carbohydrate? Are some fruits better to eat than others? Sophie, type 1 diabetes DWA Diabetes Educator and Dietitian Rebecca Flavel says… Fruit is a confusing one and yes all fruit does contain carbs. Our body uses carbohydrate from a number of different foods to give us energy. Luckily for us, fruit also gives us some essential vitamins and a good amount of fibre. That fibre helps to slow down how we get the energy from the fruit, so our glucose won’t spike. Be a little careful with how much tropical fruit you eat in one sitting though, as there is a bit less fibre and your glucose may rise faster.

Mrs Hind said she was also thankful for advancements in diabetes management and technology over the decades. “When I got diabetes, there was so much that you couldn’t or shouldn’t eat. Now we know it’s about balance and timing. The other thing that is absolutely wonderful is the blood testing system. It’s just a prick of the finger now and you have a good picture of your blood sugar as it is in the moment.” Mrs Hind said she found managing her type 1 diabetes to be “irritating and a nuisance at times”, but wasn’t as bad as many people thought. “Diabetes isn’t such a bad thing to have, it’s just a part of living, that’s all,” she said.

I keep getting aching pains in my legs. My legs hurt when I start walking and then stop hurting when I sit down. I have had type 2 diabetes for 25 years. Should I be worried? Dolores, type 2 diabetes DWA Diabetes Educator and Registered Nurse Christine Carne says… Some people get pains or even aches, cramps or numbness in the calf muscle. This can occur with low impact exercise and is relieved by a short period of rest. It is usually related to issues with circulation however, leg pain may also be due to nerve problems. It is best to see your doctor to receive the appropriate diagnosis and, if required, he/she will explain the treatment options or referrals.

If you have a diabetes-related question that you would like answered, email it to community@diabeteswa.com.au. If you can’t wait until the next quarterly issue of Diabetes Matters to get your answer, you can speak to a member of the Diabetes WA education team. Call the Diabetes Information and Advice Line (DIAL) between 8.30am and 4.30pm weekdays on 1300 001 880.

Recognising symptoms A

ndrew Walker, 42, had a rather dramatic type 2 diabetes diagnosis, when he suddenly lost his long-range vision at work.

“Obviously, my colleagues told me to go see a doctor ASAP,” Andrew said. “When they tested my blood sugar it was at 21mmol/L, and they told me I had developed type 2 diabetes.”

A result of insulin resistance, the glucose is stored in your blood but your muscles and your brain can’t access it, so your body is literally starved of energy.

As it turned out, Andrew had missed a number of symptoms and warning signs for at least a year before he was diagnosed.

Andrew said being diagnosed with type 2 was a “kick in the bum” that he needed. He has quit drinking and smoking in the past year – and losing weight is his next challenge.

“Last year I had torn a muscle in my groin and I went to Fiona Stanley Hospital,” he said. “They took urine and found there was protein in it, and they said that I was pre-diabetic, which didn’t really mean anything to me at the time. “I was there for treatment of a sporting injury, and I was in great pain associated with that, so that’s what I was focused on. The term ‘pre-diabetic’ didn’t have the impact it should have.” Andrew also experienced a symptom common to diabetes – extreme tiredness. “I had a cycle where I would have energy for about four days and then I couldn’t get out of bed for a day,” he said. “I had done sleep studies at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and all the results were positive. They couldn’t work out why I was so fatigued when I was getting such good sleep.” While recently at a DESMOND workshop with Diabetes WA, Andrew said he has since learned that this was a fairly common thing.

“Through diabetes education and with advice from a dietitian, I have lost 10kg since March,” he said. “I was 128kg to start with, I have dropped down to 118kg…I’d like to get to about 90kg.” Luckily Andrew’s loss of long-range vision was a temporary side-effect of high blood sugar levels and has now returned. Andrew’s story not only featured in the media during National Diabetes Week in July, but he also stars in our new DESMOND video (see page 7) talking about his experience and advising people diagnosed with pre-diabetes to get regular check-ups and education to prevent full diagnosis. People diagnosed with pre-diabetes are 15 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. “I’d rather not have diabetes but I see it, funnily enough, as a sort of guide rail for keeping me in a healthy range,” Andrew said. “It has put more of a focus on health in my life. I’ve taken it in my stride, and looked at it as a positive thing. It has provided me opportunities for education to help me become healthier.”

Andrew Walker being photographed by the Community Newspaper Group

Be Above 5 to Drive

or the past few years there has been great concern about the Australian guidelines being used to assess fitness to drive for people with diabetes.

Diabetes Australia and state and territory member organisations have led the way on advocating changes to these guidelines to make sure they only address aspects directly affecting someone’s ability to drive. Working closely with diabetes specialist clinicians and researchers in the Australian Diabetes Society and credentialled diabetes educators in the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the team advised and collaborated with the National Transport Commission, to make the guidelines fairer and safer for people with diabetes. In October last year, revised and clearer guidelines were introduced. The old guidelines used a person’s average blood glucose measurement over a three-month period (the HbA1c measurement) to determine if their diabetes management was adequate to indicate they were safe to drive. This number was only ever intended as a guide for doctors, but unfortunately many people with diabetes had their licences suspended because this ‘guide’ measurement was interpreted strictly. The new guidelines no longer have references to HbA1c and the emphasis is on the immediate measurement of blood glucose level using test strips (or continuous glucose monitoring devices) to ensure that a person’s blood glucose level is not low i.e. hypoglycaemia, which can directly impact on safe driving. This is even more important when a person has impaired hypoglycaemia awareness. The key message for safe driving is the “Be Above 5 to Drive”.

Would you like to know how high blood glucose levels affect your capacity to drive? The University of WA researchers are looking for people with type 1 diabetes aged between 20 and 50 to take part in their new study using a driving simulator. The study aims to better understand how diabetes and high blood glucose levels affect attention, executive functions and driving performance. Participants will be asked to consume a tasteless liquid, rest one hour and perform some psychological exercises to investigate cognitive function. They will then operate a driving simulator and respond to dots appearing in the periphery of their vision and answer some simple maths questions. Contact Georgia Varnavides (0430 088 349 or 21512008@student.uwa.edu.au) or Professor Paul A. Fournier (08 6488 1356 or paul.fournier@uwa.edu.au).

Calling all active drivers with Type 1 Diabetes We are currently evaluating a new Diabetes Driving ToolKit and wou ld love to hear from you For more info and a chance to win an iPad-mini visit:

www.diabetesdrivingoz.com Participate in the main study and

gain

1 BLOOD GLUCOSE meter 400 Test Strips

win an iPad mini

Tips for Driving and Diabetes Obtaining a licence If you have diabetes, you need to provide a medical report before a driver’s licence or learner permit can be issued. This report should be from your treating doctor or diabetes specialist stating that a medical examination has been performed and you have been assessed as fit to drive.

Inform the licensing authorities If you develop diabetes you must inform the Department of Transport. In most cases if you manage your diabetes by insulin you will require a medical certificate every two years and if you manage it by tablet every five years. If you control your diabetes by diet and exercise alone you are still required to inform them. If you are required to notify the authorities but don’t, you could be charged with driving offences if you have a driving accident.

Informing your motor vehicle insurer If you develop diabetes it is also advisable to inform your motor vehicle insurer. If you don’t report your diabetes to your motor vehicle insurance company you may have problems with insurance claims.

Hypoglycaemia Hypoglycaemia can impair your ability to drive safely. Ensure that you always have a carbohydrate snack available in your car. If you feel your blood glucose level is low, pull over immediately and stop your car. Do not restart your car until you have treated your hypoglycaemia and feel absolutely normal.

Diabetes complications If you have impaired vision, nerve damage or heart problems, talk with your doctor about the possible effects on your ability to drive safely.

Navigating the corporate lunch G

oing out to lunch and getting away from the office sounds like a treat, but regularly meeting with clients or your team at a restaurant can have a real impact on your healthy eating goals. Eating out can absolutely fit into a healthy

lifestyle, you just need to equip yourself to make smart choices. Diabetes WA Dietitian and Diabetes Educator Sheryl Moore has some tips for navigating the business lunch.

1. Look past the dish names to the descriptions. The title of anything – a food item, movie, song, book – is meant to catch your attention. But, don’t stop at the enticing meal names. Focus on the dish descriptions to find the info you need. For example, Kapow Chicken Salad sounds inviting, and since it’s a salad, you might think it’s all healthy. The description says it has lettuce, tomatoes, crispy chicken, fried tortilla strips, two kinds of cheese, and guacamole with a spicy ranch dressing. This tells you that the majority of toppings are high in kilojoules and fat. You may still choose to order the salad, but now you will know to limit your fat and kJ intake in subsequent meals and snacks.

2. Learn the jargon. Make sure that you also understand what the descriptions are saying. In the example above, the chicken is described as crispy. This is another way of saying it’s breaded and, most likely, fried. Below, I’ve created a short menu cheat sheet. • Typically made with butter, cream/milk, and/or cheese: Au gratin, alfredo, béarnaise, beurre blanc, béchamel, creamed, hollandaise and velouté • Other words for “fried”: Battered, breaded and crispy • Usually lower in fat and calories due to cooking with little or no oil/butter: Grilled, baked, poached, broiled, roasted, steamed, stir-fried and lightly sautéed

3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Not sure what something on the menu means or how an item is prepared? Ask! The wait staff is there to help. Ask them for tasty, healthy recommendations. Also, don’t hesitate to inquire about substitutions. Can they serve the dish grilled instead of fried? Can the side of fries be swapped for a salad? If the sandwich comes on white bread, can they use wholemeal instead?

4. Don’t let stress cloud your menu choice. The environment of a high-pressure corporate lunch may mean you are quick to order the first thing on the menu or drink too many glasses of wine to relax you. If you know it is going to be a stressful lunch, it can pay off to plan your eating strategy before arriving at the restaurant. Nowadays, many restaurants have the menu available online, so do your research as this may help you choose your meal before you go.

5. Slow down and listen to your body. Restaurant portions seem to be getting bigger and bigger. You don’t have to clean your plate! Also, just because a meal comes with sides or the desserts are discounted, or the corporate credit card is paying, it doesn’t mean you have to order everything. Tune in to your body, and listen for its signals. Listen to your body, eat slowly, savouring every bite and monitor how hungry or full you feel.

Hints and Tips • Consider asking for an entrée sized or a smaller serve. • Ask for extra vegetables or salad with your meal and skip the chips. This is especially good for limiting kilojoules when eating out. • Ask for dressings and sauces to come separately so you can add a smaller amount yourself. • Avoid large serves of pasta and rice dishes with few vegetables and high fat sauces. • Choose a lean piece of meat, skinless chicken or seafood. • You can always try asking for a dish to be prepared as you would prefer. Most restaurants would like to please you where they can. • Finish with fruit or share a dessert with a colleague. Sometimes you only need a taste of a delicious dessert to be satisfied. • Limit alcohol and alternate drinks with water. • Think about when you most enjoy an alcoholic drink, for example, before or during the meal, and limit your drink to that time.

It takes the stomach about 20 minutes to communicate to the brain that it’s full. So, eat slowly and enjoy the company you are with or make your strategic corporate move.

Broad Bean and sesame dip Delicious served with chopped raw vegetables or Lebanese bread. Serves: 4 as a light lunch or starter Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook Fast Eat Well A

void getting caught with your fingers in the cookie jar at work and come prepared! BYO lunch doesn’t have to be boring. Get creative and plan ahead. Sue Quinn’s new cookbook – Cook Fast, Eat Well – includes some quick, healthy and delicious recipes that you can make to pack in your lunchbox. And, thanks to Murdoch Books, we have a copy of this cookbook to give away. See page 33 to enter our Spring giveaway competition. Images and recipes from Cook Fast Eat Well by Sue Quinn (Murdoch Books RRP $35).

Ingredients • 4 garlic cloves

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• ½ teaspoon soy sauce

• 500g frozen broad beans (podded)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Nutritional Information per serve

Energy Protein Total Fat Saturated Fat Carbohydrate Sugar Dietary Fibre Sodium

Method 1. Boil a full kettle. Meanwhile peel the garlic cloves. Fill the saucepan with boiling water and cook the broad beans and garlic cloves for about 4 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Drain. 2. Transfer to a blender or food processor and add the sesame oil, lime juice and soy sauce. 3. Measure out 180ml cold water. With the motor running, gradually add enough water to form a smooth and creamy dip. Season with salt and pepper.

Zucchini and feta fritters

Crispy and light, serve these fritters hot with some leafy greens. Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients • 1 small zucchini

• A small handful of mint leaves

• 50g feta cheese

• 1½ tablespoons plain flour

Nutritional Information per serve

Energy 241 kJ Protein 3g Total Fat 3g Saturated Fat 1.9 g Carbohydrate 4.3 g Sugar 0.4 g Dietary Fibre 0.9 g Sodium 141 mg

Method 1. Grate the zucchini, wrap in a tea towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess liquid. 2. Finely chop the mint and, in a large bowl, combine it with the zucchini and flour, adding salt and pepper to taste. Crumble in the feta, mix with your hands and shape into 4 firm patties. 3. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a heavy-based frying pan and fry the fritters for about 2 minutes on each side over a medium-high heat, or until golden.

371 kJ 9.5 g 1.9 g 0.2 g 3.6 g 1.1 g 10.1 g 47 mg

Roast Capsicum soup This flavourful soup can be served either hot or chilled. This recipe is a little higher in salt than is recommended, so consider reducing the stock or decreasing the amount of cubes or powder in your mix. Serves: 2 Prep time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information per serve

Energy 498 kJ Protein 1.1 g Total Fat 9.8 g Saturated Fat 1.6 g Carbohydrate 6.3 g Sugar 5.4 g Dietary Fibre 1.9 g Sodium 540 mg

Ingredients

Method

• 250g drained roast capsicums from a jar, plus 2 tablespoons of the jar oil

1. Boil 400ml water in the kettle. Roughly chop the onion and garlic. 2. Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil from the capsicum jar in a pan and gently fry the onion and garlic for 5 minutes. Roughly chop the capsicums and add to the pan, stirring. 3. Pour the boiling water into the pan and add the stock cube or bouillon powder. Stir and season with pepper to taste. 4. Transfer to a blender, add the basil and blitz to the desired consistency. Add a little more boiling water or pepper if needed.

• 5 basil leaves • 1 onion • 2 garlic cloves • Enough low-sodium vegetable stock cubes or bouillon powder to make 400ml stock

Vietnamese duck rolls This recipe uses smoked duck breast, but if you can’t find this in your local supermarket, you can substitute raw duck or chicken breast and cook it yourself. If you would like to increase the fibre in this dish, serve the rolls with some veg or salad. Makes: 6 rolls Prep time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information per serve

Energy 918 kJ Protein 8.9 g Total Fat 7.1 g Saturated Fat 1.8 g Carbohydrate 29.1 g Sugar 8.7 g Dietary Fibre 2.8 g Sodium 450 mg

Ingredients

Method

• 1 smoked duck breast

1. Finely slice the spring onion into 10cm lengths and slice the duck breast into thin strips. 2. Place the noodles into a medium bowl, cover with boiling water and leave to soak for 5 minutes. Drain and rinse. 3. To assemble, dip each spring roll wrapper into a bowl of warm water, place on a clean work surface and place some noodles, spring onion, duck and hoisin sauce in the centre – being careful not to overfill. 4. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and tightly roll up. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Cover with a damp, clean tea towel or wrap in damp paper towel to take to work. (This will stop the rolls from sticking to each other.)

• 40g vermicelli noodles • 6 vietnamese spring roll wrappers • 3 spring onions • 35g hoisin sauce

Got a desk job? Then get up and move! A

ccording to a recent study, office workers who take brisk walks for two minutes every half hour can lower their blood glucose and insulin levels.

Increased sitting is known to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and death from all causes. Now, the most recent Otago study shows this sort of activity also reduces triglyceride (lipid) levels when measured in response to a meal consumed around 24 hours after starting the activity. High levels of triglycerides are linked to hardening of the arteries and other cardiovascular conditions. The study's lead author, Dr Meredith Peddie of Otago's Department of Human Nutrition says that earlier international research had overwhelmingly failed to detect evidence that regular walking breaks affect lipid levels, but this is likely due to the effect generally not being immediate. In what is known as a randomised crossover trial, 36 participants completed four two-day interventions in the Otago study: • Prolonged sitting • Prolonged sitting with 30 minutes of continuous walking at the end of the first day

• Sitting with two minutes of moderate intensity walking every 30 minutes • A combination of the continuous walking and regular activity breaks described above. Blood levels of triglycerides, glucose, and insulin responses were measured in the participants over five hours on the second day of the experiment. The scientists found that, overall, short regular walking breaks, 30 minutes of continuous physical activity – and especially the two combined – appear to have good potential to improve people's metabolic health. The traditional half-hour block of moderate to vigorous activity is important, but so is limiting long periods of sitting by undertaking regular short bouts of activity throughout the day. This approach, if maintained over months or years, may be enough to explain why individuals who regularly break up sedentary time have better cardio-metabolic health outcomes.

Diabetes WA Brainteasers Below you will find 10 well-known six letter words, with only their endings remaining. Can you determine the words?

1. ...era

6. ...phy

2. ...cil

7. ...may

3. ...uld

8. ...ese

4. ...nis

9. ...eum

5. ...nda

10. ...axy

Spring

Can you draw this diagram in one continuous line, without crossing any lines, retracing your steps, or lifting your pen from the paper? (Answer on page 35)

Competition

We have another cookbook to giveaway! Cook Fast, Eat Well by Sue Quinn shows us that cooking a meal doesn’t have to mean long lists of ingredients and hours in the kitchen.

5 Ingredients, 10 Minutes, 160 Recipes Featuring over 160 recipes, all healthy and fast without compromising on flavour, this cookbook contains recipes that use only five ingredients cooked in ten minutes. Plates to share and light bites, salads and soups, pasta, meat, poultry, seafood dishes and desserts – all easy to prepare and easy to eat. Sue Quinn, a former national newspaper journalist and foreign correspondent, is now a respected Australian cookbook author and food writer with an emphasis on healthy recipes. Her recipes have appeared in leading food publications including Delicious and BBC Good Food magazines. Murdoch Books have given us a copy of Cook Fast, Eat Well to give away. Publisher: Murdoch Books RRP: $35.00 To enter, complete the competition slip and mail to:

Diabetes Matters – Members’ Competition PO Box 1699, Subiaco, WA, 6904 or email the below details with the subject title “Spring Competition” to:

membership@diabeteswa.com.au

Good Luck! Name: Diabetes WA membership number: Address: Contact number: Email address: Entries close 1 December 2017.

1. Camera, 2. Pencil, 3. Should, 4. Tennis, 5. Agenda, 6. Trophy, 7. Dismay, 8. Cheese, 9. Museum, 10. Galaxy

Everyone can be a lifesaver!

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OUR SERVICES ELECTRICAL DISCOUNTS Need a new electrical or gas appliance? Have you shopped around? Your next step? Simply call us directly or complete an online enquiry quote request. Then let us find you a better deal! It’s that easy! TRADES & SERVICES Receive special deals from over 60 ShopRite retail partners! Offering real discounts to ShopRite members, you are sure to find a bargain! MOTOR VEHICLE SALES ShopRite Relationship Managers will find you your next car, for the best price. We buy more, so you pay less. Also ask us about finance & salary packaging options!

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Diabetes WA members receive a 10% discount on First Aid training and products at Royal Life Saving Society WA this year*!

BOOK ONLINE at royallifesavingwa.com.au and enter the code DIABETESWA or for corporate or group booking enquiries call our bookings team on (08) 9383 8200 *10% discount applies to all available First Aid and Resuscitation courses run by RLSSWA, as well as products purchased through RLSSWA’s online shop using the discount code. Offer valid through 30/06/2018.

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Get SMARTER about your diabetes management The SMART programs are a range of short group workshops designed to help you better manage your diabetes. ShopSmart

FootSmart

MeterSmart

CarbSmart

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Learn how to decode labels and make healthy choices while shopping.

Everything you need to know about caring for your feet.

Master the art of blood glucose monitoring and what the numbers mean.

Unravel the mystery of carbohydrates with this carb counting masterclass.

Everything you need to know about your medications.

For more information or to book call our Helpline on 1300 001 880.

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) is an initiative of the Australian Government administered with the assistance of Diabetes Australia. 38462_key2_0817

7-14 October Raffle

t for your chance to Its raffle time once again! Buy a raffle ticke the work we do in win $10,000 and support Diabetes WA and the community. d by calling Tickets are only $2 and can be purchase fles.com.au uraf wa.a 1300 001 880 or online at diabetes

8 October Fremantle Running Festival This community event is conducted by the West Australian Marathon Club in South Fremantle, with the proceeds being donated to Diabetes WA. Participants have the option of 5km, 10km and a half marathon. For more information or to register for the event visit wamc.org.au

14 November World Diabetes Day A day to give voice to people living with diabetes, this year, the theme of World Diabetes Day will be Women and diabetes – Our right to a healthy future. The 2017 campaign will promote the importance of affordable and equitable access for all women with, or at risk of, diabetes to the essential diabetes medicines and technologies, self-management education and information they require to achieve optimal diabetes outcomes and strengthen their capacity to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Research Participants nts Needed – Pagre parents of children

d is seekin The University of Queenslan 0 years to take part in a with type 1 diabetes aged 2-1 lore factors that could help or research study that will exp ring their child’s diabetes. By sha hinder parents in managing y ntif ide us p hel l wil you y) your experiences (confidentiall s ent par professionals to support better ways for health care and families. to request a survey to be For further information or bower@uq.net.au or call posted to you, email j.gram 6 1202. Dr Amy Mitchell on (07) 334

Mental Health Week

In 2017, Mental Health Week will celebrate 50 years of promoting mental health awareness and helpi ng reduce stigma in WA. To launch the event this year, on 7 October, they are heading to the regions and holding their flagship opening ceremony in the heart of Kalgoorli e. This free event will connect the whole comm unity with a range of local mental health service provi ders in a fun, sport-packed, and youth-oriented environm ent. For more information visit mhw.waamh.o rg.au

1 November Seniors Have a Go Day This year’s ‘Have a Go Day: a LiveLighter Event’ marks the 25th year of the event being held in the picturesque grounds of Burswood Park. Mark this date in your diary to try a range of activities, source senior-specific services and information, enter free raffles and enjoy a free tea or coffee at the Have a Go News hospitality marquee. Diabetes WA will be there with a stall, so come and say hi. Visit srcwa.asn.au for more information.

December Quiz Night

A night not to be missed, the ever-popular Ian Anderson Quiz Night will be taking place in December (date tbc). With proceeds going to Diabetes WA, this night gives you and your friends the opportunity to show off your knowledge and win some great prizes. To book your table or to find out more email fundraising@diabeteswa.com.au

Research Participants Needed – Young Adults

Researchers at Curtin University are conducting an online research proj ect to understand more about young adults’ experiences of living with and man aging type 1 diabetes. They are needing a large number of participants aged 18-3 5 years with type 1 diabetes to take part. For more information email grace.downie@postgrad.curtin. edu.au

Brainteaser Puzzle (p33) Answer

Start here

Real Solutions Real Support Obesity Surgery WA offers a multidisciplinary team approach to people with obesity. It is well known that obesity is a high risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. The good news is that losing weight can improve your type 2 diabetes, help stabilise blood sugar and decrease medication requirements to make your life healthier. Don’t leave it until it’s too late, while your diabetes is poorly controlled it is doing slow and irreversible damage to your organs. The less time you have elevated blood glucose levels, the better. Harsha Chandraratna Surgeon

Janet Barry Obesity Assessment Clinician

Angela Houston Dietitian

Jo Climo Nurse

Come in and have a discussion with one of our doctors to learn more about how Obesity Surgery WA could help you. We offer real solutions with real support.

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Help us continue to meet the growing need for services and support for people affected by diabetes in Western Australia. A gift in your will is a valuable way of supporting Diabetes WA. We receive large and small bequests and each is welcome and greatly appreciated. If yo ur current one, please remember Diabetes WA and the difference you can make to the lives of countless Western Australians, perhaps even someone you know. If you would like to know more please call 1300 001 880 or visit www.diabeteswa.com.au.

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