For thousands of Western Australians who are managing the complexities of type 1 diabetes, the Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre is a haven and a lifeline.
Among them is 11 year old Gypsy, who has found strength, support and friendship since her diagnosis seven years ago.
Type 1 diabetes (type 1) is an auto-immune condition causing the body’s immune system to attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
The body can still access glucose - or energy - from food, but can’t get into the cells where it’s needed. As a result, glucose remains in the blood and raises blood sugar to dangerous levels.
For Gypsy, her diagnosis meant adapting to a whole new way of life. From managing blood glucose levels, to insulin injections and frequent testing, but one of the hardest parts was feeling different to other kids her age.
Gypsy’s journey led her to the Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre where she has built strong friendships and gained confidence to manage her condition.
A highlight has been taking part in Kids in the Kitchen cooking classes, which help children living with type 1 learn about carbohydrates in food that impact their blood glucose levels.
Classes also help kids to make friends and break down the isolation that living with a chronic medical condition can impose.
“It’s great to come to the cooking classes because I can talk to other kids who have type 1 like me,” Gypsy said.
“I really like to encourage the kids who are new because I know how hard it was for me when I was first diagnosed. I was really scared, especially of the needles.”
Gypsy’s mum Kathryn remains grateful for the support the Family Centre provides.
“I feel very supported at the Family Centre, and the friendships I’ve formed have made all the difference,” Kathryn said.
“Being able to talk to other mums about what we’re going through is so helpful because it’s so scary when your child is first diagnosed.
"But the highlight for me is seeing the friendships Gypsy has formed. She has a supportive friendship group and they’re constantly chatting in their 'dia-besties’ group chat.”
Family Centre CEO Benjamin Jardine said knowledge, understanding and support are key to helping those living with type 1 to live happy, healthy lives.
"A little understanding goes a long way, so take a little time to learn about type 1 diabetes," Benjamin said.
"Know the signs and symptoms of high and low blood sugar and ask how you can help. There's no 'holiday' from type 1, so having someone in your corner can make all the difference."
MinRes is proud to support the Family Centre and programs like Kids in the Kitchen through its five-year, $10 million partnership with Telethon.
Our partnership is helping young Western Australians with type 1 diabetes live a full life in a supportive and empowering community.
More information on the not-for-profit organisations and programs MinRes supports can be found in our 2024 Social Investment Report.
