A 50-year legacy: Albury Wodonga Diabetes Support Group

The 50th year celebrations brought together past and present members to share their unique journeys, highlighting the crucial role of peer support in their lives. The stories they shared epitomised the spirit of the Albury Wodonga Diabetes Support Group.

Doug Furze, who joined his first group meeting at age 16 alongside his mother, reflected on his experience. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 12 years old, meeting with others on a similar journey was a turning point. His story intertwined with Lois, his then girlfriend (now wife), who also began attending the group.

Still as vibrant as ever at 90, Bryan Watson spoke about the early years when he was the group's inaugural treasurer. His zest for life is evidenced by his upcoming European journey with his 87-year-old 'baby brother'. Bryan's legacy is his advocacy for community initiatives.

Sandy Mathey was 23 when the group was founded, and she has been involved since day one. The support network she formed at group meetings has had a lasting impact on her and she remains close with many of the people she met in the early years today.

The event not only celebrated the group’s history, it was also an opportunity to recognise current members. Jill Craig, the present-day peer support convenor, shared her journey that began at age 14 during a camp focused on self-administering insulin injections.

Liz Hare, another cornerstone of the group, shared a personal anecdote from her first meeting. She was having a hypo and realised everyone around her immediately understood what was happening, how rare and comforting!

With over 100 active members in the Albury Wodonga region, the group is committed to connecting people, be it through casual coffee catch ups or engaging forums with guest speakers.

While the Albury Wodonga Diabetes Support Group never misses an opportunity to bring the diabetes community together, the group has also played a pivotal role in improving diabetes care in the region.

The group has advocated to improve access to services and has been actively fundraising for diabetes technology for their regional public health service since 2014. They've donated over $60,000 worth of medical equipment to Albury Wodonga Health.

Living with diabetes can be frustrating and isolating – the Albury Wodonga Diabetes Support Group is a lifeline. They provide a welcoming, safe space for people affected by diabetes to share challenges and successes.

Diabetes support groups provide comfort, connection, and empowerment. Group members warmly welcome anyone searching for a community that understands and supports their journey.

If you would like to get involved or establish a support group in your region, visit our Peer Support page.