Winner
Nicholas Guerin
Patient and author of www.typeaware.co.uk
Nick has had type 1 diabetes for 21 years and writes an informative and insightful blog on his condition. His followers can read about every aspect of diabetes, the good and the bad, and also see Nick’s thoughts on where improvements can be made in this field.
Comments
"Nick writes a fantastic blog. He has been through some rough times with his condition but has always remained extremely positive"
Nominees
Laura Cleverly, Founder, Ninjabetics Group
Laura is a Diabetes UK Young Leader and diabetes advocate. She was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 16. Laura created the online diabetes group Ninjabetic to provide support and guidance for patients.
"Laura doesn't get paid for anything she does for diabetes. She has changed my life for the better and I want to thank her."
Jacqueline Fosbury, Medical Psychotherapist, Diabetes, Brighton and Sussex Universities NHS Trust
Jacqueline has worked in diabetes for over 20 years. Her special interest is in diabetes and insulin omission – diabulimia. Jacqueline supervises and teaches psychotherapy to clinicians working in diabetes.
"Without Jackie I wouldn't be on the right care pathway. Her passion goes a long way – she is amazing!"
Gavin Griffiths, Patient
Gavin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in January 2000. Over the past five years he has become an ultra-marathon runner, to raise funds and awareness for diabetes.
"Gavin should be awarded for inspiring kids to realise type 1 needn’t stop them achieving great things."
Terry Hill, Chair, Leicestershire Parents Group, Diabetes UK
Terry joined Leicestershire Parents Group of the BDA (now Diabetes UK) in 1982 when his five year old son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. In 1989 he was appointed Chair and has contributed to the continued success of what is one of the most active parents’ groups in the UK.
"I'm so proud of Terry. He has succeeded in ensuring that our local group has remained successful, active and innovative."
Lesley Jordan, CEO of InputDiabetes
Lesley was diagnosed with diabetes in 1968, aged two. She is the CEO of Input Diabetes, a charity run by insulin pump users and their families to campaign for easier access to diabetes technology across the UK – from insulin pumps to smart glucose meters.
"Lesley battles to brush away misconceptions about pump therapy and wider myths about diabetes. The entire diabetes community owes her thanks."
Sandra Tweddell, Voluntary Patient Group Network Lead
Sandra is treasurer of the recently founded South Bristol Diabetes UK voluntary group. She has worked tirelessly to promote the group through local media and is making links nationally with other successful patient groups.
"Sandra has been absolutely instrumental in changing the face of diabetes support groups in Bristol."