Diabetes Ireland’s 50 years honoured
The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Hubert Keaney hosted a reception at Sligo County Council’s offices to honour Diabetes Ireland on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary celebrations.
The reception was attended by CEO of Diabetes Ireland Kieran O’Leary,
In his address, the Cathaoirleach said: “One of the main benefits of publicly honouring your organisation is that it enables us to increase public awareness of the outstanding work carried out by your members, as well as reviewing future plans and proposals.
“The focal point of this evening’s reception is the local launch of a publication setting out in fascinating detail the history of Diabetes Ireland, the spirit of its founding members, the challenges faced by members in the early years, and the brave attempts to provide educational and other supports with very scarce resources.”
The Irish Diabetic Association was set up at the Mansion House in Dublin on 2nd April 1967.
Cllr Keaney continued: “It is a credit to successive members of Diabetes Ireland that you have expanded and grown the organisation over the last 50 years, you have seen dramatic improvements in the treatment of diabetes, and you have also witnessed a better public understanding of diabetes, its causes and effects.
“A very important message delivered by Diabetes Ireland is that with proper advice, guidance and support, there is no reason why people with diabetes cannot live life to the full. You could name numerous athletes with diabetes across a variety of sports who are high achievers.
“In this year when Sligo celebrates its status as ‘ European Capital of Volunteering’ it is timely to acknowledge the exceptional work of your organisation’s volunteers.
“Whether it is providing patient support on your helpline, publishing news and information, providing mentoring services in areas such as health insurance, co- ordinating regional or local awareness campaign – the list is endless, but so is the capacity and dedication of your members, and it is important that we convey that message this evening,” he said.
CEO of Diabetes Ireland Kieran O’Leary said: “It is a testament to the work of many people who have given their time to Diabetes Ireland.
“The recent announcement of the new diabetes centre to be built in Sligo Univer- sity Hospital along with the development of a diabetes paediatric centre of excellence was hugely welcomed by our community,” he said.
The ceremony conclude with presentations to diabetic nurse specialists Catriona Coleman and Patricia Murray, and to long serving Secretary of the Sligo Association Suzanne Donnelly.