When Julie was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, she was uncertain about what her future would look like.   

She was concerned about how she was going to look after her daughter, who manages a serious health condition.  

She knew she had to change her lifestyle to live well with the condition and although it was overwhelming, she started walking.  

Julie started with small steps but she was on a long journey to better health. These days, she walks 76 kilometres a week, makes healthy, realistic food choices, has a job she loves and the ability to spend quality time with her daughter.  

Julie says she hasn’t let diabetes take over her life. It’s just one part of it.    

“No one expects you to run a marathon. The important thing is to get moving,” Julie said.   

“I started small with just a few minutes of exercise every day.    

“It wasn’t anything fancy.    

“I strapped on my cheap shoes and went for a 20-minute walk because that was all I could do to start with.    

“Before long, I started losing weight and feeling healthier. I’ve upgraded to better shoes now!  

“I didn’t want managing diabetes to affect my whole day. Instead, I made diabetes part of my daily routine, like brushing my teeth. Doing things at regular times, every day, means I get it out of the way and it’s no longer my focus. I feel more in control and happier, while keeping fit, strong and healthy for my daughters.”  

It’s time to unite for Julie and all those living with type 2 diabetes so they have the support they need to make positive lifestyle changes to live long and live well. 

Click the Unite in the fight for change image below to visit the campaign page.