In 1934, Janet Rae was first diagnosed with diabetes at just 18 months old.

Janet Rae knows better than most the issues faced by people with diabetes after she was diagnosed aged just 18 months in 1934.

The first her family knew of the problem was when her mother found the 18-month-old Janet (pictured left) limp in her pram.

She had already suffered from whooping cough and gastroenteritis, so her mum made sure she was rushed to the doctor and then it was to hospital in Glasgow, where the condition was diagnosed.

To celebrate her achievement Janet was a special guest of honour in January when the Scottish Parliament acknowledged the 75 years work of Diabetes UK in a special debate (pictured right).

Mrs Rae was already used to the insulin injections when this Christmas picture of her as a toddler was taken in the 1930s.

"I have had diabetes my whole life, and I have received such amazing care and advice from doctors, nurses and Diabetes UK that I wanted to be there when that work is recognised by the Parliament."

She does not see her diabetes as a drawback and insists: Having diabetes for 75 years has made me a very disciplined person. I value my health and still try to keep fit."