CHARITY Diabetes UK is running regular online sessions for adults in Dorset living with type one diabetes.

Commonly known as the #Big1, these sessions are designed to help remove the isolation often felt by people who have the condition.

This session was originally launched as a one-off face-to-face event in 2018 for older teens and young adults, and a follow-up had been planned for June 2020.

When the pandemic struck, instead of cancelling, Diabetes UK’s South West team who run the event decided to continue online.

Regular attendee, Sue Briggs said: "I’ve managed to attend all the #TheBig1 events so far. They are very well managed with input from the start on the specified topic, as well as ensuring that people’s questions are answered throughout.

"It’s great to see these events attracting such a wide audience and so good to be able to listen to people’s experiences.

"I’m certain I wouldn’t have been able to attend so many had they not been online, so it’s good to see a positive come out of the current situation."

The subjects tackled in the session have been wide-ranging, with type one diabetes and emotional well-being the topic for discussion on June 1.

With clinical psychologist, Dr Rose Stewart, and a local diabetes specialist nurse as guests, the session was very well attended.

In September, sport and exercise with type one diabetes was the issue of the day and the speakers on that occasion were British professional boxer Muhammad Ali who lives with type one, and consultant in diabetes and endocrinology, Dr Robert Andrews.

Luisa Moccia, whose daughter Sabrina died in 2016 from complications as a result of her type one diabetes, said: "Sabrina often spoke to me about feeling isolated so I am grateful to Diabetes UK in helping people to understand their condition, get support and to know that they are not alone living with diabetes.

"Sabrina, I am sure, would have greatly benefitted from this event and I find it quite emotional that her legacy is playing a small part in helping others in their daily lives living with diabetes."

The next event, planned for the December 16 at 7pm, will be about eating well with type one diabetes.

Diabetes UK’s Improving Care Manager in the South West, Matt Robert, who has type one, will be hosting the event.

Comedian Tiernan Douieb, who lives with type one, and a specialist diabetes dietitian, will join to provide advice and guidance on food choices – as well as how to deal with all those mince pies and Christmas puddings.

To register for this event, visit: https://eu.eventscloud.com/healthyeatingwithtype1diabetes