A member of Budleigh Salterton Lions Club has been appointed as the new Diabetes Officer for the whole of the South West Lions District, comprising more than 50 Lions Clubs.
Tom Miner joined the Budleigh Salterton Lions in March 2022 and immediately became an active member, joining litter picks and beach cleans, and helping out at the monthly bingo and other events.
In July that year he volunteered to be the Club Diabetes Officer, which was a brand new role for the club. Tom is not a healthcare professional and does not suffer from diabetes, so he admitted that it was a steep learning curve.
Over the last year he has done a huge amount to raise diabetes awareness in the Budleigh area, in liaison with local healthcare professionals and Diabetes UK.
Diabetes is one of Lions Clubs International's five global causes. Thanks to Tom, most of the Budleigh Lions' events now have a Diabetes Awareness stand and pull-up banner. Diabetes UK leaflets are displayed and are available for people to read or take away.
Tom has also established smaller permanent displays in some public locations in the town.
As part of the Lions Club International 'Strides for Diabetes Awareness' programme, Tom invites other Lions, friends and family to join him at the weekly Parkrun in Exmouth. He has also organised a Budleigh Lions Club 'Striding for Diabetes Awareness' day which was enjoyed by local people and visitors to the town.
With his partner Lion Kathy (who is the club's Hunger Officer) he has raised £1,000 for Diabetes UK and JDRF (a type 1 diabetes charity) through their charity cycle rides.
He is now an ambassador for the Diabetes UK-wide cycle ride which he is keen to promote throughout the South West Lions District.
Tom is helping to promote the many benefits of being active for people with type 1, type 2 or other types of diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin better, reduces blood pressure and protects against heart disease. It also helps people lose weight and maintain their weight loss, sleep better, and improves mental wellbeing.
For more info regarding diabetes and exercise,visit https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/exercise
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