Sharon, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years, has won our Alan Nabarro medal in recognition of her perseverance and courage in managing the condition.
Sharon was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1974 when she was 10 years old. Living with diabetes has always been challenging, she says, and learning how to consistently check her blood glucose levels and count carbohydrates every day was far from easy.
Her diabetes management changed significantly following the introduction of technology. Prior to using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), Sharon was doing 10 finger-prick tests a day, but the technology means she can now easily check her glucose levels.
“My Dexcom CGM has really helped me, and this year my HbA1c was the best it’s ever been. I also find the alerts important as I don’t always feel when my blood sugar is going low,” she said.
What is the Alan Nabarro medal?
We awards medals to individuals who have lived with diabetes for 50, 60, 70 and 80 years.
The Alan Nabarro medal is awarded to people who have lived with diabetes for 50 years. Alan Nabarro waged a lifelong battle against discrimination against people with diabetes. In 1968 he was awarded the OBE for his work with young people in London.
“I was delighted to receive my medal from Diabetes UK for living with type 1 diabetes 50 years,” Sharon added.
If you know someone who deserves a medal, find out how to get one.
