Des Kirwan Diabetes Ambassador

09/07/2025

A brand new 'diabetic Barbie' has been launched by Kate Moss's daughter Lila in an attempt to increase representation.

09/07/2025

We’re incredibly proud of the Irish team who are representing us at DiaEuro, the European Futsal Championship for people living with diabetes.

These athletes are proof that diabetes doesn’t define limits—it inspires strength, teamwork, and resilience 💪💙

Their dedication on and off the pitch shows that an active, fulfilling life with diabetes is not only possible, it’s powerful. 🙌

Check out the full article via: https://www.echo.ie/diabetes-does-not-stop-people-having-active-lives/ for a brilliant look at how the team trained, competed, and broke down stigma through sport.

Let’s keep showing the world what’s possible with the right support and mindset. Well done so far lads! 👏👏

13/03/2025

06/02/2025

Living with type 1 diabetes can be challenging, and unfortunately, many people with this condition experience stigma. This stigma can come from a lack of understanding about type 1 diabetes and can lead to negative feelings and experiences.

What is type 1 diabetes stigma?

Type 1 diabetes stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and discriminatory behaviors directed towards individuals with type 1 diabetes. This can include:

* Blame and judgment: People with type 1 diabetes may be blamed for their condition, with others incorrectly believing it was caused by lifestyle choices.

* Misconceptions: There are often misunderstandings about type 1 diabetes, with some people confusing it with type 2 diabetes or believing it is contagious.

* Social exclusion: Individuals with type 1 diabetes may face exclusion from social activities or be treated differently due to their condition.

* Self-stigma: People with type 1 diabetes may internalize these negative attitudes and develop feelings of shame, guilt, or embarrassment about their condition.

Impact of stigma

The stigma associated with type 1 diabetes can have a significant impact on a person's life, affecting their:

* Mental health: Stigma can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

* Diabetes management: Individuals may avoid checking their blood sugar or taking insulin in public due to fear of judgment, which can negatively impact their health.

* Social life: Stigma can lead to isolation and difficulty in forming relationships.

How to combat stigma

It is crucial to address and combat type 1 diabetes stigma. Here are some ways to do this:

* Education: Spreading accurate information about type 1 diabetes can help dispel misconceptions and increase understanding.

* Awareness: Raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with type 1 diabetes can promote empathy and reduce stigma.

* Support: Creating supportive communities where individuals with type 1 diabetes can share their experiences and connect with others can help reduce feelings of isolation.

* Advocacy: Advocating for policies that protect the rights of people with type 1 diabetes and promote inclusion can help create a more accepting society.

Remember, type 1 diabetes is not a lifestyle choice, and no one deserves to be stigmatized for it. By working together to educate, raise awareness, and support those affected, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world for people living with type 1 diabetes.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stigma related to type 1 diabetes, please know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help.

14/11/2024

My journey with Type 1 diabetes has been challenging, but it's also made me stronger. I'm grateful for the support of my loved ones and the incredible advancements in diabetes technology.

05/07/2024

Thriveabetes on in July

We are SO excited about participating in DiabetesChat on Monday, July 22, 8-10 pm.

Diabetes Chat is an online community and chat space that connects people with type 1 and healthcare professionals.

The idea behind is to connect with people with diabetes from all over the world to chat and share ideas and experiences.

unites people in a peer support group and gives everyone the opportunity to listen, chat, say hello, ask questions or share their unique Diabetes journeys.

You can find out more and even listen back to past Live Chats here https://www.diabeteschat.net/ or through their IG account at

23/04/2024

Thrilled to be listed as one of the Blue Circle Voices with the International Diabetes Federation.

05/03/2024

https://www.diabetes.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/talking-about-diabetes.pdf

29/02/2024

Let's talk diabetes! Did you know 300,000 people in Ireland are affected? But here's the thing: the way we speak and write about it matters.

That's why the Diabetes Language Matters Ireland Working Group developed a guide to improve communication. Let's support those living with diabetes. For more information, visit: https://www.diabetes.ie/living-with-diabetes/living-type-1/talking-about-diabetes-language-matters-diabetes-ireland/

16/01/2024

Breaking News in Diabetes Technology!

Dexcom announced today the Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System now connects with the t: slim X2™ insulin pump by Tandem Diabetes Care in countries across Europe and South Africa. The system combines the power and accuracy of Dexcom G7 with the discretion of the Tandem t: slim X2.

For more information visit: https://www.diabetes.ie/a-powerful-alliance-dexcom-g7-now-connects-to-tandem-tslim-x2/

16/01/2024

Meet Adam Kavanagh who recently represented Ireland in a pan-European futsal tournament for people living with diabetes.

Adam was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 21. He has been an active sportsman his entire life, with a particular love for soccer.

In June, he represented Ireland in the European Futsal Championships for Diabetes held in Poland. He finished as the team’s joint-top scorer with four goals.

Well done Adam and keep up the inspirational work, we are so proud of you!! 👏💪🎉⚽

To read Adam's personal story visit here: https://www.diabetes.ie/meet-adam-kavanagh/

13/01/2024