Diabetes UK president steps down

The president of Diabetes UK is stepping down after a decade of campaigning for the charity.

Richard Lane OBE, who underwent the UK’s first fully successful islet cell transplant in 2004, began volunteering with the charity because it had funded the research behind the pioneering treatment.

The 72-year-old said: “When I discovered it was Diabetes UK I basically just said, ‘What can I do to help?'”

He was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1976 aged 32 and was later told he had brittle diabetes, a form of type 1 diabetes which is harder to control. It can lead to blood glucose levels changing extremely quickly, with little or no warning.

His condition also led to a series of diabetic comas, one of which occurred when at the wheel of his car.

‘Lasting impression’

As a result he broke two vertebrae in his back and spent 18 months in and out of hospital, which culminated in major spinal surgery.

The best thing about working with Diabetes UK has been meeting tens of thousands of inspirational people

Poor health meant he had to retire from his job as a partner in a large accountancy firm and was forced to give up the sport he loved.

Richard became president of Diabetes UK in 2008, following three years of working for the charity in a volunteering capacity.

“The best thing about working with Diabetes UK has been meeting tens of thousands of inspirational people, many of whom are living with diabetes and who have made a lasting impression on me.

“I have hugely appreciated the opportunity to present awards, on behalf of the charity, that recognise the commitment and hard work of its volunteers, many of whom live with diabetes or support people who have the condition.

“Earlier this year I also met Her Majesty The Queen at St James’s Palace at the Diabetes UK’s 80th anniversary celebrations and that was quite a moment! Quite simply, I have loved every minute of it.”

Passion and commitment

Richard now plans to enjoy spending more time with his family, but has agreed to become a Diabetes UK ambassador. He is the first person to take on this role which will see him supporting the charity to nurture ongoing relationships with key supporters.

Richard added: “I will be watching with interest to see how research continues to push the boundaries for people with diabetes over the next few years. Ultimately I want to see a world without diabetes.”

Chris Askew, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Over the past 10 years Richard has worked tirelessly for Diabetes UK and his passion and commitment have really shone through. We are hugely grateful for all his support to date in helping us to reach and support even more people living with diabetes across the UK.

“As we wish him all the very best for the future, we are also delighted that he will continue to play an important part in our work as Ambassador for Diabetes UK.”