Sir Steve calls for diabetes support
Dear Editor
November this year marks the 20th anniversary of when I was diagnosed withType 2 diabetes.
Having been at four Olympics, I thought my chances of competing in another one were nonexistent but I quickly learned from medical professionals that the condition can be managed.
Having said that, reaching my fifth podium wasn’t straightforward. Diabetes remains a huge health crisis and it’s on the rise. About 4.5 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, and 11.9 million in the UK are at risk of developingType 2 diabetes.
That’s why I’m really keen to make more people aware of the work Diabetes UK does. Their ultimate vision, one I share, is for a world where diabetes can do no harm. They would love to have support for DiabetesWeek which is taking place from June 11-17.
The theme this year is one which is close to my heart, ‘Know diabetes. Fight diabetes’.The aim is to raise awareness of the great work the charity does to help people know their diabetes, and together we take on the fight which the challenges of diabetes present so that we can live to our full potential.
During DiabetesWeek, Diabetes UK would like to encourage people with the condition to get in touch and share their knowledge and experience, to help and inspire others.
What have you learned about diabetes which has made a difference for you? Help Diabetes UK fight for better care, more research and less stigma.
Do please get in touch, visit www.diabetes.org.uk/ diabetesweek to find out how you can get involved.
Sir Steve Redgrave Diabetes UK supporter