Diabetes Focus Winter 2021 | The official online publication for DSA

Dear members and friends,

I hope that you are all keeping well and are in good spirits as winter is settling in and the weather is getting colder. Winter always brings to mind warming soups and stews, curries and casseroles, sitting by the fire, reading books with cups of steaming hot chocolate and all those lovely comfort foods.

I appreciate our South African winters, which are relatively mild compared to the reports I get from family members in other parts of the world, where they experience well below freezing temperatures and knee-deep snow and blizzards.

We have really great articles in this issue. All the articles are interesting and helpful, especially Heart attack and stroke – know the symptoms and How to improve cholesterol profiles with diet. We should all be aware and pass on to friends and family.

Other good reads are Questions answered: COVID vaccines and diabetes, Discussing winter jabs and The importance of clinical trials.

Meet Sock Doctor and The rules for sick days are timely articles especially during winter. Remember, that you get a free pair of Mohair and Bamboo Medisocks when you take out or renew a DSA Membership.

I have always thought that having empathy is so important in our lives, as we all have challenges along life’s journey and it makes such a difference when we experience empathy. This is why Empathy in your diabetes care: a luxury or a necessity? is a great article.

The measure of it – Time in range is such useful and informative info on blood glucose testing which is so important for all with diabetes. I specifically recommend reading and following the advice to help you manage your diabetes.

We are all holding thumbs for Jonathan Collins on his Successful appeal for pilot with diabetes. Go Jonathan!

I encourage you to read all the articles as there is always something new to learn or be reminded of. Let us know which are your favourites or which ones you especially enjoyed.

Please look after yourselves during this winter season and let us know if we can assist you with your diabetes.

Yours in Health