Mrs Riley was a young mother to three children when she was diagnosed with the disease but has managed to stay active and healthy since.

And yesterday the 75-year-old great-grandmother was recognised for her long battle and was awarded the Kellion Victory Medal for her survival.

“I’m really quite excited,” she said.

“I didn’t think I’d make it this long.

“I just look after myself, exercise and don’t eat too many sweets.”

Medical technology has also made living with diabetes easier for Mrs Riley over the years.

She remembers when she was first diagnosed and she would have to boil the insulin syringe on a gauze for three minutes.

Mrs Riley now has up to four insulin needles a day.

The Kellion Victory Medal was named to honour the late Claude Kellion who made a significant donation towards diabetes research after his son John died from complications of the disease when he was only 38.

Diabetes NSW board member Liz Hare presented Mrs Riley with the medal.

“Pat can be proud of the way she lived her life — keeping active and involved in the community,” Ms Hare said.