These are the diabetes stories of people from all walks of life, who were happy to share their experiences. Each one is there to inspire, to highlight different aspects of living with diabetes, or simply to show that - whatever your situation - you're not alone.
Do you have a story to help or encourage others? Whatever your story and experience, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please send us some details about yourself and your story by completing our online form. Or you can call the Media Press team at Diabetes UK on 020 7424 1000.
Fiona King was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 19, and went on to pursue a career as a professional ballet dancer. Poor blood glucose control led to her developing a number of complications, including nerve damage and kidney problems.
Fiona’s film, My Point of View, tells the story of her experience of diabetes.
"I did it was to prove to myself I could compete and finish this challenge without my diabetes being a hindrance."
'I’m always on the look out for unconventional ways of raising money for charity. Part of the appeal to me was that the Ice Run had never been attempted before, so everything was unknown.'
'The Marathon took over my waking thoughts and probably my sleeping ones for months.'
'This isn't a story about the risks, dangers and ultimate consequences, it is about understanding and respecting the condition.'
'I guess I just want to raise awareness of what can happen if you don't take care of yourself.'
'Our group has been nominated for so many awards and I myself was nominated in this year's prestigious John Ireland award.'
It’s been 90 years since people started using insulin to treat diabetes. It’s certainly kept me alive for over eight of those nine decades and has allowed me to have a family, a career and enjoy life to the full.
'I questioned myself for years, but now I believe it's made me stronger.'
'Prior to this I felt that diabetes controlled me and stopped me from living the life I wanted.'
Members of the DAFNE Users Action Group talk about championing an education course that has changed their lives and given them the freedom to manage their diabetes, rather than let it manage them.
"With a smile on your face you can face it and we put our smiles on every morning"
"I have been a Type 1 diabetic for nearly 40 years and for the last three have been using an insulin pump."
"What a sense of achievement when you reach the top having just cycled it and not got off your bike and walked it."
'I have never hidden my condition and do not feel embarrassed by it '
"I am definitely feeling much fitter from the challenge and have fewer aches than I previously had."
"I have to say that the overall experience of running for charity was a hugely positive one."
"Through the generosity of everyone concerned, it is likely I have three or four times more than I thought."
"I really enjoyed the challenge and I'm so pleased that Diabetes UK have got over £350 from the generous sponsors."
"We have already noticed the difference in our fitness."
'Yes, I am still obese but now I have hope.'
"Life can get back on track…….this is just a hiccup."
'It was my brother’s idea to raise money for Diabetes UK, in fact he said he wouldn’t do it for any other charity.'
I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on 16 September 1958. I was just four-years-old and had to spend three months in the Birmingham Childrens Hospital.
I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on the 5 February 1985 at the mere age of 12 - this was a big change for me.
Following the huge success of our first Diabetes UK Shark Dives last year, four more intrepid volunteers took the plunge for our charity at the Blue Planet Aquarium this April!