Over 4 million people in the UK are living with diabetes and many people know a friend or family member living with the condition, however, there are so many myths and misconceptions surrounding the disorder it’s hugely misunderstood. This Diabetes Week (12-18 June) is about setting the record straight.

Suffers of the condition, like Pushpa, will be sharing stories and the realities on what it’s like to live with the condition as well as exposing the things they wish people knew.

Pushpa lives with Type 2 diabetes and thought she knew all the ins and outs until she attended a Living With Diabetes Day in her local area. The day covered a range of topics such as the care she should get, diet, exercise, medication, avoiding complications, travel and driving.    

“I thought I knew everything about diabetes, as my parents had the condition but I learnt so much from the event. I found out about the 15 Healthcare Essentials and the importance of checking not just your blood glucose levels, but your eyes and feet too."

Diabetes Week is a highlight in the Diabetes UK’s calendar and asks supporters come together to raise awareness and uncover some of their key facts. For example, did you know…

• Four million people have diabetes in the UK which is more than cancer and dementia combined
• For every £1 spent treating the condition, less than half a penny is spent on research to fund our search for better treatment and a cure
• Diabetes is more than a debate about sugar, or simply taking insulin – it’s a chronic, life-long health condition that needs to be taken seriously by the public, the NHS and the government.
• Six-times Olympic medallist, Sir Steve Redgrave CBE was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 1997

“There is no reason why you can't achieve your dreams but it takes a lot of patience to work out the right routine. I decided early on that diabetes was going to live with me, not me live with diabetes.”

Get prepared for Diabetes Week here and don’t forget to share your involvement, fundraising and ideas with us on twitter #diabetesweek #actuallydiabetes.