There are only a couple of spots left for our next education session this coming Tuesday. Focusing on Type 2 Diabetes, our credentialled Diabetes Educator Annette will be covering the topic of 'Diabetes Basics'. Starting from the difference between Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, down to recognising hypos and managing sick days, this session is a must-see for those newly diagnosed, those feeling a little lost, or those who just need a refresher.

This session is part two in a five part series, which started in April and runs through to August. Once a month we host a session for Type 1 and a session for Type 2, covering various topics that will help you feel more in control of your diabetes management. Family and support networks are encouraged to attend as well.

The 'Diabetes Basics' education session for Type 2 Diabetes will run on May 29th at 6pm at our centre in Merewether. Tickets are $15 per person per session, and can be purchased online at the link below, or you can bring cash along on the night. Whilst there are 5 sessions in the series, you can attend one, some, or all of the remaining sessions at your choosing. Any questions, please send an email to event organiser Gabby on [email protected] or call us on (02) 4963 2323 

May has been declared as 'Macular Month' by the Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA). This campaign aims to raise awareness of macular and eye related diseases, with the focal question being: 'Are you at risk of macular disease?' 

We were astounded to learn that two-thirds of Australians with diabetes are unaware that the condition can affect their vision. People with diabetes are at higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, which is damage caused to the back of the eye, potentially leading to blindness. Retinopathy develops as a result of high or poorly managed blood glucose levels, with early symptoms including blurred or distorted vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Early stages of retinopathy may also include seeing floaters - little black spots which 'float' within eyes and block your vision.

Left untreated, retinopathy can lead to blindness, so Macular Month is the perfect time to learn how to minimise your risk. If you have diabetes, you should see your eye specialist every 2 years. It is also imperative that you take your diabetic medication as prescribed. The most effective way to help combat retinopathy however is to manage your blood glucose levels. Prolonged high glucose levels are one of the biggest contributors to long-term complications, so keeping your levels within target is invaluable. A healthy diet and regular exercise will also help reduce your risk.

The longer you have had diabetes, the higher your risk is of developing diabetic retinopathy. If you notice any changes in your vision, book in to see your ophthalmologist or healthcare professional as soon as possible. 

The dust has settled, the lycra has been packed away, and the leg muscles are starting to feel normal again; but we are still buzzing on the success that was our JDRF One Ride! Our team of 6 cycled 80km through the Barossa Valley, SA last month, to raise money for Type 1 Diabetes research.

Run by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, this charity bike ride is held each year - but this was the first time our team of cycling amatuers gave it a crack! There were many unexpected uphill stints, an unfortunate encounter with a bee, and a lot of sweat, but we made it over the 80km mark relatively unscathed.

While our team may have pushed ourselves to the limit to reach that finish line, we know the challenge is ongoing for those living with Type 1 Diabetes. While technology has helped improve diabetes management significantly, in an ideal world we would have a cure, and Type 1 Diabetes would be no more.

That's why this race was so important to us, as every dollar raised goes towards finding that cure and eradicating Type 1 Diabetes. And with your generosity, our team managed to raise over $17, 000! We could not have envisioned a better outcome, and we were truly inspired by everyone who gave so selflessly to help us reach this financial goal. So from myself, and all of my team, I can only say one thing - thank you!