Our Family
Diabetes Guernsey was set up by people with diabetes, and their families; so, we'd like to introduce you to our main committee members.
We are a growing family of volunteers, and always appreciate more help, so if you would be interested in helping out with Diabetes Guernsey please get in touch
Steph Black
Chairperson
Why did you get involved with DG?
When I was first diagnosed with T1D age 8, the Diabetes UK Guernsey branch provided me and my family with so much support. Unfortunately, this closed down shortly after, and on returning from University I realised there was limited peer support on island for people with diabetes. With the support of the Diabetes Nursing team, we were able to get a group together to form Diabetes Guernsey in 2018.
What do you most enjoy about working with the charity?
I am currently chairperson of the charity which is a really varied role. I chair our monthly meetings, help at events, answer emails and write thank you cards. My favourite part of the role is the moment I speak to someone new at an event or via email and get feedback that Diabetes Guernsey has been able to support them! Working in the charity is also great peer support as the DG team is made up of mostly people with diabetes, so I now have friends with diabetes I can go to who fully understand the challenges.
How do you spend your time outside of work and the charity?
I am self-employed and have a two-year-old - that is literally all my time haha! I also enjoy walking and setting myself challenges. Previously that was physical challenges but now it might be something simple like going for a walk or doing some painting.
A fun fact
In 2016 I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. It was really hard and really cold, but an amazing experience.
Sally Lesbirel
Co-Chairperson
I adore all the colourful things in life from nature, walking, and caring for my two pups and cat!
Why did you get involved with DG?
I was diagnosed with diabetes about 18 years ago. It has been a rollercoaster ride. When first diagnosed, I was young and on the party scene (still am) and retaliated against my condition and even now sometimes still struggle emotionally. I originally got involved with the charity to offer support and give something back to the community but since I have been involved, I have made some amazing new friends and having emotional support and friends with the same condition has helped me so much.
What do you most enjoy about working with the charity?
I love meeting new people where I can offer my support. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone who is struggling feel better and manage their condition better just because someone is there to talk to. I also love the banter I have with my fellow diabetes friends. We all understand each other!
My favourite part of the role is the moment I speak to someone new at an event or via email and get feedback that Diabetes Guernsey has been able to support them! Working in the charity is also great peer support as the DG team is made up of mostly people with diabetes, so I now have friends with diabetes I can go to who fully understand the challenges.
How do you spend your time outside of work and the charity?
I love being outside, getting my dogs out for coast walks and taking in the beautiful scenery we have here in Guernsey. I also love to travel and experience different cultures. I love to learn... learn about anything!!
I recently was handed down an old sewing machine from my late grandmother and during lockdown I had a go on it. I have never sewn in my life! I am now absolutely addicted! I have made my friends and family face masks and am now working on making different types of bags! I am self teaching myself so have a long way to go but am loving the challenge!
Emma Cutts
Treasurer
Why did you get involved with DG?
Although I am not diabetic myself, my brother and one of my closest friends is T1D, so I have a basic understanding of diabetes and how it can have an impact on people's lives. The opening for Treasurer came up towards the end of 2020 and with my little boy starting school and being less dependent on me, I thought why not! I qualified as an accountant in 2013 and have around 15 years' experience in finance in the commercial sector so i hope my skills will have some benefit for DG.
What do you most enjoy about working with the charity?
I most enjoy the feeling of it being quite a new charity, the team are working hard to establish the charity and get its name out into the Bailiwick. There are a number of events coming up and although challenging, it is great to be involved in the early stages and see it develop.
How do you spend your time outside of work and the charity?
I have a little boy who is four years old and he is into everything, so he consumes most of my time. We spend a lot of our time outdoors enjoying all Guernsey has to offer with our border terrier Jessie.
A fun fact
I love my holidays and travelling to see family and friends in the UK. With the recent restrictions on travel, I have found a new love for camping - something I thought I would never like. We are very fortunate in Guernsey that we are still able to enjoy the Bailiwick freely and I have tried to make the most of it. I can't believe it took 30 years for me to discover how fun it is, especially with my family!
Roxanne Williams
Co-Treasurer
Why did you get involved with DG?
I got involved with the charity to offer support and raise awareness for the Diabetic community. I felt Guernsey lacked this support system.
What do you most enjoy about working with the charity?
I have really enjoyed meeting fellow Diabetics and volunteering and organizing events.
How do you spend your time outside of work and the charity?
I am currently on maternity leave so currently spend all my time with my daughter Olivia. Enjoying walks and lots of sensory play.
A fun fact
I love to study criminology and also love to bake
Other Personnel
There are numerous other people involved with Diabetes Guernsey including Erin Cottell, Matt Ferguson and the Diabetes Nursing Team Alison Place, Rebecca Pattimore and Specialist midwife Denise Bennett.
View our Diabetes Guernsey Poster here.
View our Diabetes Guernsey Flyer here.
See our page at the AGC.