After two years of no government, just last month we saw the return of the Assembly and the Executive in Northern Ireland, with Robin Swann re-appointed as Health Minister. In preparation for his return to post, we called on local supporters to sign a ‘welcome card’, and asked them to tell the Minister what good diabetes care looks like and why diabetes should be a priority for the Department of Health.
We were so pleased to see nearly 100 people signing the card, with a variety of messages on the relentless nature of diabetes, access to diabetes tech and what matters most to them in their care.
Here's a flavour of some of the messages:
"Better diabetes care would look like more consistent and regular appointments, easier access to medication and technology and fewer complications for those living with it."
"Diabetes affects my life every day as it is always there, it's not something that I can shove in a corner and forget about until later."
"Diabetes should be a priority because we never get a break from it."
"Better diabetes care would be everyone being able to access better technology."
"Diabetes should be a priority because the more support and help we get, the less likelihood that those living with it will get long term health problems."
We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who took the time out to sign and share the welcome card and were delighted to present this to the Health Minister last week. We were very lucky to be joined by fantastic volunteers Jean, Peter and his granddaughter at the presentation.
