I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes four years ago. During this time, a lot of new blood glucose metres have become available. These devices are more precise, they work faster, and they require less blood for measurement.

There are also regular improvements in insulin pump technology, such as the ‘closed-loop’ system, which prevent some hypoglycaemic events.

Sadly, none of these improvements were helpful to me because our insurance only covers the fee for a new insulin pump after eight years of use. In the end it can be quite frustrating to hear about new technology in the media or from other sources and not be able to afford it as soon as it is launched.

My wish would be for equal rights and opportunities for people of all ages, to be able to access the necessary medication and the best medical devices for their individual needs. Only then can we say that we have done everything in our power to help them tackle the disease and live a normal life.

I have been involved in many public health campaigns about diabetes and living a healthy lifestyle. In my opinion, the most interesting initiative in Slovenia is the annual competition testing your knowledge of diabetes. This is organised in primary schools all around the country.

The competition offers children an insight into the disease and helps increase awareness, avoid confusion and misinformation and reduce some of the stigma connected with it.