A New Zealander who is the world's longest female survivor of type 1 diabetes has reached another milestone.
Win Johnston has just clocked up her 80th year of living with the condition.
The 86-year-old has defied the odds.
At age six, Ms Johnston was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Her twin sister had it too, but she died at 16.
She was told she would be lucky to live until 55. Doctors also said Ms Johnston would never have children.
But she has had four, including twins, and none of them have inherited the condition. Then there are the grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her brood is proudly displayed next to her other achievements.
Ms Johnston has lived with type 1 diabetes for 80 years – a record recognised by the international diabetes community.
The hope is she will inspire the 240,000 New Zealanders who have type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
"There's no secret," she says. "It's just getting on with life as it comes day by day and being sensible about everything."
Ms Johnston is sensible about exercising, what she eats and her insulin, with a good sense of humour to match her record-breaking good health.
3 News
source: newshub archive
