2016 Queensland Credentialled Diabetes Educator of the year – Kate Mundy
A few weeks ago I was informed that I had been nominated for and had won the 2016 Queensland Credentialled Diabetes Educator of the year.
For those of you that don’t know, the award is aimed at profiling leading CDE and acknowledging their extraordinary contributions in the community of people with diabetes and diabetes education.
It came as quite a shock. In fact when I first opened the email, I was convinced it was spam and sent it to a colleague to see if she had also received one. Nope it was true after all!
So as the shock wore off it did get me thinking…. What have I done that is so “extraordinary?” After all, I have always felt I have done my job to the best of my ability but in no way have I ever considered myself to be “extraordinary.” The thought of being CDE of the year, although a very nice award, actually made me uncomfortable. Until now, I couldn’t put my finger on why.
Now I think I may just have it.
- Whilst I do not consider myself extraordinary, I do consider the team I work with to be extraordinary. We believe in the same things – Compassion for our patients, understanding of their situations, and encouragement and support through their journey with Diabetes. We provide tools for management but respect their choices. We advocate for a fair go and a life free of discrimination and stigma. We practice under the banner of knowledge, trust and respect and truly believe in what we do. And we do it because we love it – this is not just our jobs – it is our passion. As a team WE are extraordinary.
- Our patients are extraordinary – the people that walk through our doors and allow us to be a part of their journey with diabetes, whatever the story, whatever the situation. Who have good days and bad days and wake everyday ready to fight again. Who rise and fall and ride the rollercoaster that is diabetes……YOU are extraordinary.
Without these people there would be no award. And whilst I am humbled be recognized for my contribution to Diabetes Education in Queensland, I feel the award is a reflection of, and an achievement for our whole team especially the core of our team – Our patients. Thank you for being strong, resilient and open to change. Thank you for not giving up on yourselves. And thank you for taking us on your journey with diabetes. This one’s for you!
Kate