A one-stop regional diabetes clinic remains a goal for a Border woman recognised with an inaugural state honour this week.
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Jill Craig, of Thurgoona, is the first recipient of Diabetes Victoria's Outstanding Contribution - Lived Experience with Diabetes Award, announced at its virtual annual general meeting on Monday.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1967, Ms Craig joined the Albury-Wodonga Diabetes Support Group more than 25 years ago and currently serves as president and co-convener.
"We've kept going and we've had lots of ups and downs, but I think our group's in a good space now and doing good work in the community, so that's a lovely sense of achievement," she said.
Diabetes Victoria chief executive Craig Bennett noted Ms Craig's various roles within the group over many years.
"Jill has made a meaningful contribution to improve the lives of other Victorians affected by or at risk of diabetes," he said.
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By applying for community grants, the peer support group raised more than $60,000 worth of diabetes-related medical equipment for Albury and Wodonga health services, including a podiatry chair and syringe drivers, which are used to accurately dispense insulin.
Regular past events like information stands, guest speakers and coffee and chat sessions have promoted awareness of diabetes.
"Everybody either has it or knows somebody or has relatives with it so it's out there," Ms Craig said.
"It's just getting people to do the best they can with the hand that they're dealt."
She wanted to see a regular diabetes clinic set up in Albury-Wodonga that included services like an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, dietitian and podiatrist.
"When something goes wrong you're spending your whole life organising appointments, going to appointments," Ms Craig said.
"It gets really busy and then as people get older and a bit more frail, mobility becomes an issue and travelling and parking.
"So if there was a one-stop shop - they exist in other places - people could get everything checked and it would pick up on issues early so that better treatments can happen."
The support group has lobbied Member for Albury Justin Clancy and Albury Wodonga Health.
"I believe the squeaky wheel gets some oil and it has proved that in the past for us," the president said.
Thrilled and humbled to receive the Diabetes Victoria award, Ms Craig, supported by husband Barton, intends to continue her advocacy.
"Whilst I can, it's something I think I can contribute and I think it's worthwhile," she said.
