ENID Ellis is a living example of how to lead a full and healthy life while suffering from diabetes.

The 82-year-old, who has had type 1 diabetes since she was 29, has been awarded the Alan Nabarro Diabetes UK Medal.

She was diagnosed following the brith of her son and went on to have a career as a secretary and has been a keen walker.

She also looked after her son who was diagnosed with the disease as a 14-year-old and took on the role of president of her local Soroptimist organisation.

Enid, from Foulridge, was presented with the medal at a special ceremony at Airedale Hospital’s Diabetes Centre.

She said: “I never let diabetes stop me from getting on with my day to day life. As well as keeping my career, my husband and I were walkers and I was always following him up a mountain.

"When you have diabetes, everything in life matters towards managing it. I always watch what I eat, and check my blood sugar levels at least three times a day. You can still live a full life and not give in.

“My husband reminded me that it’s important to encourage people who are just starting out with diabetes, and show them that it’s possible to live a long and full life.”

Diabetes consultant Dr Thet Koko, who presented the medal, said: "We are very proud of Mrs Ellis, and presenting her with this medal is a very special moment.”

"When you have a disease like diabetes, it is not just a case of a doctor prescribing treatment to the patient, but it is a partnership between the doctor, nurses and the patient.

Also present were two of the Trust’s non-executive directors, Dr Maggie Helliwell and Lynn McCracken.

Dr Helliwell said: "Mrs Ellis is a living testament to how the combination of medical advances and patient education can help someone with a condition like diabetes to use self-care and treatments to lead a long and happy life.”

More information about diabetes can be found at www.diabetes.org.uk or by contacting your GP.