Diabetes Matters: Podcast 1: Language Matters

Welcome to the Diabetes Matters podcast. This new series is all about why diabetes matters…because it does! In this podcast we’re talking to inspirational Kiwis, sports stars, experts and people with
diabetes to find out what matters, and why.

Today we are talking about Language Matters which will focus on the power of words and how the language we use can make our diabetes whānau (family) feel valued, understood, and supported, OR misunderstood, excluded, and stigmatised.

Words are powerful – and the words we choose to talk to or about people with diabetes, are important, especially when they’re our friends or family. Even the words people with diabetes use to talk about themselves can have a huge impact.

In this episode we are joined by three amazing guests who all have a story to share about Diabetes and Language Matters.

GUESTS

Rosemary Hall – an endocrinologist working and supporting people with all types of diabetes. She’s also a diabetes researcher and President of the New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes.
Ruby McGill – has Type 1 diabetes, is a passionate advocate for people with Type 1 and former Director of Youth for Diabetes New Zealand.
Megan Whelan – has Type 2 diabetes, works in the media for Radio New Zealand and has authored opinion pieces for stuff about her personal experience of living with diabetes.