“It is a privilege for us in healthcare professions to be able to help in whatever way we can, but the celebration tonight is an acknowledgment of the achievements of these incredible individuals who serve as role models to all of us,” according to Professor Tim O’Brien, Clinical Director of Medicine MCAN (Managed Clinical and Academic Networks) at Saolta Hospital Group.

Twelve people living with Type 1 Diabetes were recently honoured at a special awards ceremony in Galway. The ceremony, hosted by Croí, the West of Ireland heart and stroke charity, honoured the 12 people, recognising their courage and endurance in living with diabetes.

The 5 women and 7 men from across Galway, Mayo, Roscommon and Clare, who attend Diabetes Outpatients Clinics in University Hospital Galway and Roscommon University Hospital, received 50-year and 65-year achievement medals.

Speaking at the event, Prof O’Brien said he was “delighted to be able to attend and share this time with these very special people. I have been working in diabetes care for 40 years and have witnessed the significant advances in care over that time but acknowledge the challenges that these patients have dealt with.”

Tomás Griffin, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist between University Hospital Galway, Roscommon University Hospital and Community Healthcare West, added that he was “deeply honoured to celebrate this extraordinary group of individuals who have lived with diabetes for 50 years or more. Their resilience and determination inspires us all, showing that it is not only possible, but empowering, to lead active, healthy, and fulfilling lives with diabetes. We also recognize the invaluable support of their families and caregivers – this milestone is a shared achievement, shaped by the dedication of many.

“It is a true privilege to stand alongside these individuals and their loved ones as we celebrate this remarkable journey. Over the past 50 years, people living with diabetes have witnessed incredible technological advancements, from the early days of urine testing and rigid insulin regimens, to the introduction of continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and now hybrid closed-loop systems. The progress has been nothing short of transformative.”

Kieran O’Leary, CEO, Diabetes Ireland, added that “Our Living Well With Diabetes ceremony celebrates life with diabetes. It’s an honour and a privilege to present medals to people with diabetes who have lived over 50 years managing their condition, and who have adapted to the many changes in treatment over the years. This group of recipients are among a special group of 289 people overall who have received a medal.”