11 January 2012
Rachel Gower, 12, became the youngest girl to skydive in Western Australia when she took to the air to raise awareness of diabetes just before Christmas.
The inspirational youngster has been living with diabetes since she was nine years old and is passionate about showing other young people that the condition should never get in the way of life.
“Never be afraid of anything, face your fears and live life to the full, with or without diabetes. You are what you want to be,” said Rachel. “Us kids with diabetes can do anything.”
As well as juggling daily insulin injections and checking blood glucose levels throughout the day, Rachel also represents Western Australia in national swimming competitions and will tread the boards at the Regal Theatre in the upcoming musical, Oliver!.
“We know that with insulin and close monitoring of the condition, most people with type 1 diabetes can live a long and healthy life. Diabetes can play a small part in life for those who have the right support.” said Deanne Dymock from Diabetes WA.
There are over 11,000 people living with type 1 diabetes in Western Australia, many of which are children. Western Australian researchers have discovered that the incidence of type 1 diabetes is on the rise with a three percent increase per year over the last 20 years.
