Cathaoirleach hosts reception for Diabetes Ireland

1. News Archive 2021
2. News Archive 2022

In his address, the Cathaoirleach said ‘From my perspective, I see one of the main benefits of publicly honouring your organisation is that it enables us to increase public awareness of the outstanding work carried out by your members, as well as reviewing future plans and proposals.  The focal point of this evening’s reception is the local launch of a publication setting out in fascinating detail the history of Diabetes Ireland, the spirit of its founding members, the challenges faced by members in the early years, and the brave attempts to provide educational and other supports with very scarce resources..

Public Understanding

It is a credit to successive members of Diabetes Ireland that you have expanded and grown the organisation over the last 50 years, you have seen dramatic improvements in the treatment of diabetes, and you have also witnessed a better public understanding of diabetes, its causes and effects. Over the course of your work, your organisation been passionate and articulate advocates for your members, and you have celebrated many milestone achievements along your journey, with one of the key dates being the establishment of the Irish Diabetic Association in the Mansion House, Dublin on 2^nd April 1967. 

Guidance and Support

A very important message delivered by Diabetes Ireland is that with proper advice, guidance and support, there is no reason why people with diabetes cannot live life to the full. You could name numerous athletes with diabetes across a variety of sports who are high achievers in their chosen discipline, and they are  an inspiration to younger people in our community with diabetes.

Volunteers

In this year when Sligo celebrates its status as ‘European Capital of Volunteering’ it is timely to acknowledge the exceptional work of your organisation’s volunteers all over the country. Whether it is providing patient support on your helpline, publishing news and information, providing mentoring services in areas such as health insurance, co-ordinating regional or local awareness campaign – the list is endless, but so is the capacity and dedication of your members, and it is important that we convey that message this evening

Diabetes Centre

CEO of Diabetes Ireland Kieran O’Leary said the history of Diabetes Ireland launched last week set out the successes and achievements of the charity over the last 50 years’ It is a testament to the work of many people who have given their time to Diabetes Ireland. The recent announcement of the new diabetes centre to be built in Sligo University Hospital along with the development of a diabetes paediatric centre of excellence was hugely welcomed by our community. This reception is about acknowledging everyone who has worked and volunteered and worked for Diabetes Ireland over many years.’

Presentations

The ceremony conclude with a number of presentations;

Diabetic nurse specialists Caitriona and Patricia were honoured for their service to Diabetes Ireland over and above their jobs. 

Professor Kathy McHugh (Endochrinologist Sligo University Hospital) received a presentation for continuing service to the diabetes community.

Suzanne Donnelly was honoured for her outstanding service as long-serving Secretary of the Sligo Branch

Group pictured at reception for Diabetes Ireland at County Hall

CEO of Diabetes Ireland Kieran O’Leary makes a presentation to Secretary of the Sligo Branch Suzanne Donnelly

CEO Diabetes Ireland Kieran O’Leary and Secretary Sligo Branch Suzanne Donnelly present a copy of the recently published History to the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Hubert Keaney

1. News Archive 2021
2. News Archive 2022