Mt Lawley MLA stepping out in support of diabetes sufferer

MT Lawley MLA Michael Sutherland has stepped out in support of his electorate officer Neil Cole, who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2001.

Mr Sutherland highlighted the importance of foot health during National Diabetes Week last week.

“People living with diabetes are at high risk of foot complications and the long-term consequences are life-changing,” he said.

Nerve damage and loss of circulation throughout the years meant that Mr Cole, from Morley, is unable to feel any cuts or lacerations and has numbness in his feet.

A foot injury sustained during renovations went unnoticed until his wife spotted a trail of blood.

Mr Cole said the cut took months to heal but he was able to prevent any long-term issues with proper medical treatment.

“I am one of the lucky ones, and I certainly learnt my lesson,” he said.

“I now see a podiatrist every five weeks, wear appropriate footwear and manage my diabetes carefully, and I would highly recommend others do the same.”

Mr Sutherland said statistics were worrying.

“It’s frightening to hear that 4400 Australians undergo lower limb amputations each year and, even worse, an estimated 85 per cent of these cases could have been prevented with early detection and proper treatment,” he said.

He encouraged people to book a FootSmart session through Diabetes WA or call 1300 136 588