NEWCASTLE – June is a milestone month for Shanila Manilal.
In the space of three days, the bubbly mother of two will celebrate her 40th birthday, but also her third decade since being diagnosed with diabetes.
To some it’s a bleak prospect, but giving up is not an option for Shanila.
“Some days it feels like the end of the world, but I can mostly get past it. You need to be posivite and strong.”
Shanila was just 10 years old when she was diagnosed.
After a harrowing week-and-a-half in hospital, the Glencoe-born Shanila was discharged with the strict instruction to use insulin twice a day.
For the next three years, mother, Anitha Laloo administered the dosage.
Once she became a teenager, Shanila began dosing herself, but would later suffer her first diabetic coma.
“At 17, I had my second coma. I was rushed from Dundee to Ladysmith for treatment.”
The lessons were learned the hard way, but Shanila understands now there is no cure for diabetes, only control and management of the disease.
This has motivated her to live life to the fullest and adopt a personal motto.
“Caring and support is for free.”
On average, Shanila wakes at 5.30am, taking her first insulin shot at 6am.
As a self-employed resident, she is busy enough during the day to be at relative ease, relying on loud music, gardening, socialising and her pets when things get tough.
She is also encouraged by a family 16-strong.
Although life was many insulin shots and numerous complications, Shanila is married for 21 years to Ravesh, and dotes on daughters, Nikita and Nikisha.
“They give me the hope to carry on.”
Offering God her praise for providing strength, Shanila also paid homage to Ravesh, Nikita and Nikisha, plus both the Laloo and the Koopen families.
“To all my caring friends and family, that simple ‘Hi, how are you?’ means the world to me.”
Shanila’s advice for diabetes patients:
Watch what you eat – “I personally don’t diet, but I monitor anything I consume.”
Exercise is important – “I walk to nearby shops regularly to keep active.”
Have a positive mind – “The disease does affect me, but I can’t let that stop me.”
Find what works for you – “Food-wise, I have learned what does and does not affect my health. Others should always work this out for themselves.”
Take control – “Controlling diabetes isn’t easy, but it is possible.”
