From Kim Kardashian to Russell Crowe, masseur to the stars Philip Rule was comfortable dealing with the biggest names in sport and entertainment.

He was on top of the world work-wise and feeling healthy so a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes came out of the blue for 5th generation coalminer who, as well as being a massage whiz, has 30 years’ experience underground.

“I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2005. I wasn’t particularly overweight and I didn’t think I was unhealthy so it was a bit of a surprise,” Philip said.

“After that I probably didn’t take it seriously enough. I had been doing some work in the mines and I started to develop ulcers on my feet that just wouldn’t heal.”

The ulcers were just a warning of what was to come.

“Everything really kicked off in 2012. First I had the big toe on my left foot amputated. After that I was a bit off balance and I had to adapt and regain my balance but it wasn’t too bad,” he said.

“But over the next eighteen months, I was in and out of hospital losing more toes each time. Things just seemed to get worse and worse.

“Finally at the beginning of this year I lost my entire right foot and all the toes on the other one. I’ll be okay in the long run but it has been a horrible year so far.”

Tragically, Philip says many of these amputations could have been prevented if only he’d received the right education.

“Obviously I’m ultimately responsible for my health, but I never really understood how serious diabetes could be, particularly when it comes to your feet,” he said.

“Better education and awareness would be a huge step in the right direction.

“It is pretty clear we need a plan to support Australians with diabetes especially when it comes to their feet.”