I've often had to work more than one job at a time to make ends meet and afford the medicines I need
How long have you been living with diabetes?
For almost 21 years.
Did your diagnosis come as a surprise to you?
It didn't come as a surprise because I was aware of diabetes before I was diagnosed.
How did your diagnosis affect your family or loved ones?
l am blessed that my family accepted my diagnosis and were ready to support my diabetes journey.
What are the most important things that have supported your diabetes care?
Learning about diabetes management, nutrition and counseling. I've used this knowledge to help others with my condition by organising diabetes seminars in schools.
What has living with diabetes taught you the most?
Living with diabetes has taught me discipline, particularly in regards to my health, and also to love myself more.
What has been your lowest point with diabetes?
It makes me feel low when people without diabetes think that I can't live a good life and achieve my goals because I have type 1 diabetes.
Have you ever experienced issues accessing diabetes medicines, supplies and care?
In my country, people with diabetes have to pay for their diabetes medicines and care and many can't afford it due to the cost. I've often had to work more than one job at a time to make ends meet and afford the medicines I need.
What would you like to see change in diabetes over the next 100 years?
Since I live in a developing country, l would like to see people with type 1 diabetes able to access diabetes medicines and supplies free of charge. I would also like to see information on how to live with and manage diabetes accessible to everyone affected by the condition.
What do you think needs to change to improve the lives of people living with diabetes in your country?
There should be more investment in diabetes awareness and people living with diabetes should be actively engaged in the development of diabetes-related initiatives.
What does the centenary of insulin mean to you?
It means POWER. The power to fight, live, help and give hope to other people living with diabetes.
