13/06/2023
✨ Today's spotlight is on Fred!
💬 "It's been very difficult at times but I've done it for the people with diabetes, making sure there got the right treatment, the love and care there deserve." 🧡
For over 50 years, Fred Holland, our local Community Champion, has been helping spread awareness for diabetes and better care. An Interest and passion triggered by his own daughter's delayed diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes in 1971.
Fred began a local diabetes support group and with the help of others campaigned for better diabetes care. Through fundraising, and Fred's persistent dedication lobbying for services, Kidderminster's diabetes centre is one of the best equipped in the West Midlands.
2012, in recognition of Fred's hard work, the diabetes centre at Kidderminster Hospital was formally named 'The Fred Holland Centre for Diabetes'. This has become one of three recognised diabetic hubs in Worcestershire.
Fred's volunteer group is now part of our Diabetes UK Local Group (Kidderminster-Wyre-Forest), offering help and support to people living with diabetes. Fred has also gone on to guest speak about diabetes and increase awareness and worked in partnership with the 'Think Glucose' county initiative 2010, NHS and Public bodies.
His achievements have been widely recognised: WRVS Diamond Champion Award (2012) and British Citizen Award (2021).
As Chairman of the Kidderminster Diabetes UK Local Group, Fred at the age of 86 years has witnessed many positive changes to care services. He is optimistic about the future diabetic support work in Kidderminster with a new generation of voluntary helpers.
💙 Thank you, Fred, for your tireless dedication, and hard work and help save lives, you're a true inspiration!
Diabetes UK Kidderminster & Wyre Forest Voluntary Group
