Testimonial

Rufaida Ruhomutally

Mauritius
Living with diabetes has taught me to never give up and always remain positive.

How long have you been living with diabetes?

I have been living with type 2 diabetes since March 2021.

How were you diagnosed?

I was diagnosed at the national hospital in Mauritius during lockdown in March 2021. I will never forget the doctors and nurses who took care of me.

Did your diagnosis come as a surprise to you?

It was not a surprise since I was aware of having type 2 diabetes since December 2019. However, I only began treatment in March 2021.

How did your diagnosis affect your family or loved ones?

It didn't really affect myself or my family since type 2 diabetes is common in my family.

What are the most important things that have supported your diabetes care?

The greatest support has been my family. They have supported me since the beginning of my treatment. My doctors have also supported me in getting my diabetes under control.

What has living with diabetes taught you the most?

Living with diabetes has taught me a lot of things. Firstly, to never give up, and secondly to be strong and always remain positive.

What has been your lowest point with diabetes?

I am always hungry after taking insulin and it's a challenge to adapt my diet with the insulin and metformin that I take in the morning and evening.

Have you ever experienced issues accessing diabetes medicines, supplies and care?

I have recently had issues with insulin due to stock shortages at the hospital.

What would you like to see change in diabetes over the next 100 years?

I would like to see better treatments available in my country and better awareness of the condition among young people, as the number of people diagnosed with diabetes increases each year.

What do you think needs to change to improve the lives of people living with diabetes in your country?

People need to be more aware of diabetes, eat healthier food and exercise more.

What does the centenary of insulin mean to you?

Starting on insulin has been a precious thing for me and I have adapted to this new way of life.

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