Clare will be at the heart of a special event for people with type 1 diabetes this September.
Thriveabetes, founded by two Clare women living with type 1 diabetes, Gráinne Flynn (Ennis) and Christine Meehan (Quin), together with the Clare Type 1 Diabetes Support Group, will host a half-day Mini Thriveabetes “Mind Matters with type 1 diabetes” conference in Ennis on Saturday, September 27.
Marking the tenth anniversary of their very first event, this conference will focus on the psychological well-being and resilience of people living with type 1 diabetes. The event is free to attend, but places are limited, and pre-registration is required at Thriveabetes.ie/mini-thriveabetes.
Keynote speaker Dr. Mark Davies, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Belfast City Hospital, will share practical strategies for coping with stress, avoiding burnout, and staying motivated. Dr. Davies works exclusively with adults living with type 1 diabetes and brings deep insight into the emotional impact of managing a lifelong condition.
Building on this, a panel discussion will bring together people living with type 1 diabetes from across the Midwest, facilitated by Ennistymon-based diabetes health coach Erin Dolan. Speakers include national rowing champion Aoife Willis (Limerick), international advocate Jean Langford (Limerick) diagnosed age 11, Ashling O’Kelly (Limerick) diagnosed age 42, Cameron Keighron (Galway) diagnosed age 16, psychotherapist Paula Short (Galway), who’s son was diagnosed at age 7 in 2013, and Tim Gilmore, diagnosed at age 8. The panellists will share honest stories and strategies for staying well, both physically and mentally. There will also be an exhibition area to showcase CGM and insulin pump technologies.
Thriveabetes takes place on Saturday, September 27, in The Old Ground Hotel, Ennis. This event is for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, burned out, or simply needed someone who truly understands what it’s like to live with diabetes. Advanced registration is required to attend. For more information, email info@Thriveabetes.ie or visit Thriveabetes.
