I HAD TO manage DIABETES on my own
Interior designer and stylist Georgia Duncan, 25, learnt tough lessons about diabetes and life following the death of her mother
Tell us about your childhood
I have two half-brothers from my father’s side. They were 16 and 18 when I was born. When I was 10 we moved to Hobart, but my half-brothers stayed in Adelaide. Soon after, my dad moved to Indonesia, which rattled me.
When did you find out you had diabetes?
I was 13. About four months earlier my mum had died from cancer. She was 52 – the best die young, hey? She’d been ill for around 14 months. I was very unwell but because Mum was so unwell with cancer I was kind of forgotten about. I had probably had diabetes for a year, but everyone just thought I was sad about Mum.
What were your symptoms?
I was always tired. I remember walking up stairs and having to rest. It was such a hard time in my life. I was also extremely thirsty and craved sugar.
It must have been extra tough without your mum around.
When my mum passed away, my options involved moving from Hobart. I was at an amazing school and wanted one thing to remain constant, so I stayed and lived with my cousin and her husband. They were great. Their two kids call me their ‘sister’.
What was that like?
My cousin’s first child was just a baby and her second was born soon after, so I had to manage my diabetes on my own. I always booked the next appointment after I’d finished the current one. It was easy because the clinic was near my school and either my cousin, grandmother or uncle would come with me.
What did you learn from that?
It’s shaped who I am today. I’m very organised and responsible. You’ll never find me stranded without sugar!
Has diabetes ever stopped you?
No. I travel a lot, I have a great social life, I exercise daily, work full-time and make sure I remain in control. It’s hard, but I find when my diabetes is in check, so many other things are a breeze.
When did you move to Victoria?
When I was 21, after a gap year in Europe and three years in Perth. Melbourne is the ‘design mecca’ so it’s where I need to be.
Describe your typical week
I go to the gym four or five mornings and have a banana or orange juice beforehand. Then I’ll have a smoothie, porridge or eggs afterwards. I have two jobs – I work in a design and fashion store a couple of days a week and also work as a stylist, which involves ironing and preparing for photo shoots. I make sure I have a snack, like fruit, mid-morning and mid-afternoon, and eat a healthy lunch. Some nights I go to run club or a strength class. I often have dinner with friends or go to the theatre. I’m out about three nights a week.
What are the main things you do to manage your diabetes?
The first is exercise. It’s an ongoing battle. I have a pump and have to work hard to keep my bloods okay, but it’s worth it for the all-round better control. The second is self-love. I know it sounds corny, but it’s true. If I didn’t have self-love, I wouldn’t care enough to look after my diabetes and that would be a never-ending spiral.
How is your relationship with your father now?
We’re close. We speak about five times a week. I get along with my half-brothers as well, and have great relationships with their wives and children. I also have a good relationship with Mum’s brother. My uncle and dad are good mates, too! n