A CREDITON Lion has told the "Courier" why she thinks everyone in the area should attend the Crediton and District Lions Diabetes Health and Well-being event, to be held at Crediton Methodist Church from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, September 21.

Lion Bronwyn Nott, explained: "I think it was about 26 years ago that I started to feel really really ill.

"I was convinced it was something beginning with a Big C.

"I was very relieved when the doctor told me I had Diabetes.

"I thought if I cut out chocolate and cakes that will solve the problem. Little did I know!

"Diabetes is a life-long debilitating disease that can lead to blindness, amputation, stroke and even death.

"My pancreas is completely shot and not producing any natural insulin at all. I now inject insulin five times a day.

"I am reasonably in control although I do have several hypos.

"Luckily I always know when these are coming and can eat something.

"I am lucky in that my surgery and the Diabetic Clinic at R D and E Hospital keep a close eye on me and I have my feet checked regularly as there is a risk of amputation of toes.

"I encourage people to go along to the Lions Diabetes Well-being event at Crediton Methodist Church on September 21 and see how they can avoid getting this awful disease by exercise and healthy eating."

There are some 3.7 million people diagnosed with Diabetes in the UK and, more worryingly, there are 12.3 million people at risk of developing the disease.

A total of £10 billion is spent on medication and treating complications of Diabetes and this roughly represents 10 per cent of the total NHS budget.

Lions Club International estimates that by the year 2040 some 650 million people are expected to be living with Diabetes worldwide.

Lions Clubs International is undertaking a programme of education and lifestyle change to try and reduce the risk of people developing the disease.

At the Crediton Diabetes Prevention and Health and Well-being event a practice nurse will test sugar levels and Diabetes UK staff will assess people’s risk of developing the disease.

Staff from Lords Meadow Leisure Centre will be present, as will a Fitness Instructor, to suggest alternative lifestyles and exercises.

A member of Westbank Diabetes Prevention Programme will advise on healthy eating.

Activity and Sports opportunities in our community will be shown by U3A members and “Get into Golf” and other local groups.

Tea/coffee will be available throughout the day and soup and roll lunches from 12 noon to 2pm.

The event is free and Crediton and District Lions Club hope that everyone will go along and learn how to avoid this terrible disease.