We leave tomorrow! I can’t believe it…
And as if to still any residual fears I had about travelling with diabetes, I’ve just made contact with Lara Mckane – another young diabetic who’s travelled through South-East Asia and has some words of wisdom to share with us… What great timing!
1. Hello! Please could you introduce yourself – name, age, how long you’ve been diabetic?
Hi, my name is Lara Mckane. I’ve just turned 29. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 21 – so I’ve had it for roughly 9 years.
2. Where have you traveled?
Well, after studying I went overseas to work in the UK. While over there I was diagnosed with diabetes. After living in the UK for 3 years I went backpacking around Australia with a friend for a year. From there I raised enough money to travel South-East Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos for a further 8 months.)
3. What was the most difficult thing about traveling with diabetes?
I love hiking… While in Cambodia we did a few hikes over numerous days, and although this wasn’t difficult it took some planning – making sure I had enough food and glucose in case of emergencies. Also making sure my insulin was kept cool in 3rd world countries where not having fridges is common practice.
4. How prepared were you before you left?
I did alot of research and preparing before going to Auz – making sure I could get the correct insulin while over there and that I had adequate medical cover in case of emergency. Asia, however, was a different story – I didn’t prepare at all other than taking adequate supplies of medicine and snacks.
5. Do you have any hints or tips for diabetics who want to travel?
I think it’s important to do research into the country before leaving – things like can you purchase a similar insulin, similar glucose strips etc over there. Also take a cooler bag or ice bags with you, to keep your insulin cool at all times – because you never know if you may break down for a few hours at a time.
Don’t let something like diabetes hinder your dreams – as long as you look after yourself and prepare yourself adequately there is no reason why you can’t do anything you set your mind to. I’ve dived the barrier reef, hiked through the jungle, sky-dived and still dream of climbing Kiliminjaro.
