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“Diabetes has had an undeniable impact on our family, so I’d encourage everyone to complete the Know Your Risk tool.”
2023-05-22
Hampshire-based Gloria Miller is a singer and presenter for Portsmouth’s Express FM. Gloria recently became an Ambassador for Diabetes UK, and is helping us raise awareness of diabetes for Type 2 Prevention Week.
Gloria’s relationship with diabetes
Gloria knows only too well how devastating type 2 diabetes can be. She told us:
“Diabetes has been in my life for as long as I can remember. My mum found out she had type 2 diabetes when she was pregnant with me. Since then, my dad, two sisters and oldest brother have all been diagnosed with type 2.
“My sister Chris experienced many complications because of her diabetes, and she had to have one of her legs amputated. She also had problems with her eyesight. Sadly, she passed away when she was just 56. Even though my mum is no longer with us, I still hear her voice in my head telling me to eat well and exercise. I also get my blood glucose levels checked regularly.”
Gloria says she is so excited to be an Ambassador for Diabetes UK because she wants to do everything in her power to help raise awareness.
"At the age of 56, I’m finally learning to swim so that I can take part in Swim22, one of Diabetes UK’s fundraising challenges which involves swimming the distance of the English Channel to raise money for the charity. I’m getting there – slowly but surely, and it’s a great way to keep yourself active. I feel 26, not 56!
“Diabetes has had an undeniable impact on our family, so I’d encourage everyone to complete the Know Your Risk tool. It only takes a few minutes and could help identify your risk of developing type 2 diabetes so you can make changes and take action.”
Who is most at risk of developing diabetes?
The risk factors of type 2 diabetes are multiple and complex.
They include:
Age
Family history
Ethnicity
Living with overweight or obesity
Social deprivation
Factors such as income, education, housing, access to healthy food, as well as poorer access to healthcare, have been shown to be strongly linked to an increased risk of developing several health conditions – including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
With the right care and support, some people at risk can prevent developing type 2 diabetes. Some people already living with type 2 diabetes might be able to put their diabetes into remission, too.
