WHEN you're diagnosed with diabetes, there's not a lot to celebrate.
But when you've been living with the disease for more than 50 years - it's an achievement worth boasting about.
Leichhardt resident Brian Leslie has had Type 1 diabetes since 1964.
The retired photographer said living with diabetes in those days was no easy task.
"In the mid-1960s, not many people - doctors included - knew much about Type 1 diabetes and the treatments and lifestyle changes required to live with the condition," he said.
"When I was diagnosed, there was no support for people with diabetes because it was so rare, there were certainly no low-calorie food or drinks.
"Decades before that, those with diabetes were probably looking at a death sentence. Back then it was called 'the wasting disease' where little could be done."
At 72, Mr Leslie said he owed his overall good health to the support and care of his wife of 32 years, Glenys.
"Without her, my life and outlook for the future would be significantly different," he said. "She has always been there, watching out for warning signs which would indicate a hypoglycemic attack and helping me avoid them."
Mr Leslie was recently awarded a Kellion Victory Medal as part of World Diabetes Day celebrations.
The award marks a huge personal triumph, commemorating those who have lived with diabetes for 50, 60 and 70 years or more.
The Victory Medal was presented by Diabetes Queensland president Dr Maarten Kamp who said he looked forward to honouring recipients each year. Dr Kamp said the award was a reminder people can still live a long and productive life.
More information from diabetesqld.org.au/
Kellion Victory Medal
The Kellion Victory Medal is named after Claude Kellion. When diabetes claimed the life of his son John, Claude, a successful businessman, established the Kellion Diabetes Foundation in John's memory. Funds raised through the foundation contribute to Diabetes Australia Research Trust projects.
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