Wiltshire pensioner receives medal for having type 1 diabetes for 60 years

A Wiltshire man has been given a medal for living with type 1 diabetes for nearly all of his life.
Pete Flannery, 69, from Trowbridge was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged nine.
The retired quality assurance administrator was presented with Diabetes UK’s Robert Lawrence medal which is given to those with diabetes in recognition of their courage and perseverance in handling the condition for 60 years.
The award was named in honour of Dr Robert Lawrence who co-founded the Diabetic Associatio, now known as Diabetes UK, with H.G. Wells in 1934.
Over the years, Pete has seen diabetes treatments evolve which has helped managing the condition a lot easier.
Speaking to the Wiltshire Times newspaper, he said: “When I was given an insulin pump in 2016, it was a life-changer. It made life so easy. I had not been as good at blood testing previously, but it was going onto a pump that started me doing regular finger prick testing.
“I now have much better control and like being able to see all my data, such as the results of every blood test I do and the volume of insulin I use.
“I have had many jobs over the years, but fortunately my diabetes has never been a serious difficulty and my record of sickness absence was exemplary.”
Phaedra Perry, Diabetes UK South West Regional Head, said: “Pete Flannery is an inspiratio, and has really shown how the right information, support and technology can help you lead a long, fulfilling life in spite of your diabetes.”