Congratulations to OHS graduate Jason Paull who has been selected as a finalist for the 'adult achiever' category of the Sweet Talk Awards*.

These awards raise awareness while acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of everyday Australians affected by diabetes. Diabetes is Australia's fastest-growing chronic condition with over one million people in the country diagnosed.

LINK HERE for details on the Sweet Talk Awards

and also to this related story: Over 300 expected for spring run, many hungry to help

Jason Paull

Jason's award website explains that he was diagnosed with type one diabetes in 2002, when he was 16. He believes type one diabetes is not an obstacle and is in fact an opportunity to be a stronger, healthier and more inspirational person.

Jason has completed multiple marathons and triathlons and is now focusing on cycling events.

As well as his OHS degree, he has completed an electrical apprenticeship, works as an OHS professional and is a partner in a sporting event management business - Human Race Events (HRE) - which donates funds to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Jason spends time each year at a local type one diabetes youth camp, where he speaks to children about living a positive life and his experiences living with type one diabetes and being an endurance athlete.

"I do not suffer from diabetes," Jason says.  "When I achieve success, it is much more satisfying due to the additional challenges that type one diabetes can present. This year in October, my wife and I will welcome our first child.  Diabetes has not stopped me doing anything; in fact, it has inspired me to do a lot."

Jason has recently been featured in a Medtronic Australia diabetes support magazine, where he reveals he has chosen insulin pump therapy as the best way to manage his condition. He has also discovered the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring. CGM involves a small sensor inserted under the skin for real-time blood glucose levels, allowing users to to set high and low alarms warning if they are going outside their safety zone.

* Winners in each category receive a Sweet Talk Trophy and a Red Balloon gift voucher to the value of $1000. The awards are sponsored by Accu-Chek and Diabetic Living and winners will be announced later this year.