At 87 years old, Lakes Entrance local Yvonne Jackson is still living independently, caring for her twin great-grandsons — and managing Type 1 diabetes, a condition she’s lived with for 35 years.

Diagnosed in her early 50s, Yvonne said the signs were hard to miss.

“I was thirsty, tired, losing weight… I just couldn’t get up the stairs at night,” she recalls.

Since then, life has meant constant monitoring of her blood glucose levels and adapting to new ways of managing her condition. But Yvonne hasn’t let diabetes slow her down — and she’s supported at home through a GLCH Home Care Package, which helps her stay independent and active.

This National Diabetes Week, we’re sharing Yvonne’s story to raise awareness about the reality of diabetes — and the support that’s available to help manage it.

There are several types of diabetes, with Type 2 being the most common, especially here in East Gippsland, where rates are among the highest in the state.

Type 1 is an autoimmune condition, and while it can’t be prevented, it can be managed with the right knowledge, tools and support.

That’s where we come in.

Yvonne is one of many locals supported by our credentialed diabetes educator, Melissa Ceely.

“Diabetes is a lifelong condition,” says Melissa, “but with early intervention, the right tools, and consistent support, people can absolutely live full, healthy lives.”

Over the years, Yvonne has witnessed big changes in diabetes care.

“When I started, you had to do finger pricks with quite a big blob of blood. And you’d draw your own insulin out of a little bottle,” she said.

“Now I use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) — and I’ve always embraced the technology.”

Melissa says education plays just as big a role as medical tools and devices.

“We now focus just as much on lifestyle — healthy eating, staying active, knowing your body — all of which can dramatically improve your diabetes and how you feel every day.”

Regular reviews with a diabetes educator ensure you’re getting the most up-to-date, evidence-based information to manage your condition well.

For Yvonne, one thing she’d like people to better understand is that diabetes doesn’t “go away.”

“I do get sick of people saying, ‘how’s your diabetes, is it any better?’ It doesn’t get better — it’s just constant control,” she said.

We offer a range of diabetes support at GLCH:

• – One-on-one appointments with our diabetes educator
• – The Life! program for people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
• – Regular foot checks with our podiatry team (highly recommended for anyone living with diabetes)

If you’re living with diabetes or want to reduce your risk, we’re here to help.

Call us on 5155 8300 to learn more.