Disease has taken its toll but has also made me far more resilient

JIM Crossland, 26, was diagnosed with diabetes aged two and says his Type 1 has made him stronger yet also "completely beaten me".

- BY HANNA GEISSLER

Over the years, he has struggled with facing stigma and ignorant comments.

Jim recalled examples: "Oh, you're diabetic, don't collapse on me', 'how are you diabetic, you're skinny', 'you don't look that diabetic', 'you just need to stab yourself and eat loads of sugar, right?'

He adds: "These comments get to me most, as they are simplifying something so complex.

"Of course, it's not malicious - there is just a lack of education around Type 1."