GRSJ Grad Student and Elder Margaretta James from Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, also has Type 2 Diabetes. As part of Diabetes Awareness Month (November) she was invited by the First Nation Health Authority to share her experience of living with disease in order to help others. The following is an excerpt:
I have found it helpful to acknowledge that life is what it is; to appreciate, love and be there for my family; and to take time out for self-care and self-love. I will be completing my Master’s degree at UBC by spring 2025 at the age of 74, and will continue working for my community in various capacities as I have done for 43+ years.
“I believe it is essential that we provide our people, including our children, with the resources they need to educate themselves about this disease. Education is key to thriving and living a life of enlightenment (not just surviving).”
I believe it is essential that we provide our people, including our children, with the resources they need to educate themselves about this disease. Education is key to thriving and living a life of enlightenment (not just surviving). Find a passion and go for it. In addition to becoming educated, we need to keep moving; eat healthy; and become aware of substance use and abuse early on with our children. We need to truly seek and source peace and joy in our lives and our children’s lives.
