Active with Diabetes Walking Holidays

As an addition to our programme of events, DRWF, in association with Ramblers Holidays, now organises Active with Diabetes walking holidays. We are very keen to promote healthy living in general and are conscious of the specific health benefits to people with diabetes that exercise can offer.

These specially tailored events are designed to be suitable for people of all abilities, with low and medium level walks on offer throughout the week. Some walks are, however, quite long and so participants need to come prepared and have a reasonable level of fitness and mobility to make the most of their holiday. Arrangements can be made for those wishing to walk less far or less frequently, though we encourage everyone to participate as fully as possible.

Our first two holidays have been based at the Ramblers guesthouse, Hassness, on Lake Buttermere in the Lake District which provides ideal terrain and spectacular scenery. With a trained Ramblers leader, Diabetes Specialist Nurse and Podiatrist attending, steps are taken to ensure the well being of everyone in the party throughout the week and in the evenings time is given to asking questions about life and exercise with diabetes.

Lake Buttermere, Cumbria.

October 2003

A personal perspective – Geoff Bovan

A bright, sunny day saw the start of this adventure. It actually started for most before our arrival as we could not find the sign for Hassness since it was hidden by the errant branches of a large colourful bush. Eventually, we arrived to be welcomed by a quartet of red squirrels, a few sheep and a very large cat.

Hassness is a Ramblers guest house on the edge of Buttermere with magnificent vistas. We were all made very welcome and were well looked after by Terry and Ann, the managers, and their friendly staff.

A number of walks and climbs and a tour of the lakes and passes were arranged for the week by our guide, Roy. Participation in these activities varied during the week since some preferred walking around the sights of Cockermouth and Keswick. An interesting evening with a member of staff from the Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team was enjoyed, and an amusing evening took place at a local hostelry when we all went out for dinner one night.

We were seventeen in number, a mixed convivial group which included two Diabetes Specialist Nurses, Trudi and Angela, and a podiatrist, Jayne. All three professionals cheerfully gave top-quality advice, care and practical help to all who asked. It was altogether a most worthwhile, laughter-filled week! I, for one, returned home more confident, more informed and six pounds lighter!

A professional perspective – Trudi Ackroyd & Angela Sealeaf (DSNs)

At the time we volunteered our services for the Lake District Walking Holiday we weren’t really sure what to expect. Although our day-to-day work is with diabetes and we have over 30 years of experience between us, we felt this was a valuable opportunity to broaden our perspective and gain insight into the physical, practical and psychological aspects of living with diabetes.

At Hassness we met interesting people from all over Britain wanting to share their experiences.

Day one started with a walk around the picturesque setting of Buttermere and Crummock Water. This was a low-level walk but when the going got tough there was the choice to return by car. Those that chose to perservere would agree that it continued to be an interesting journey with several displays of acrobatics that even the Russian Gymnastic Team would have been proud of. However, everyone returned safely in time for a hearty meal.

Each morning discussion took place with the Ramblers leader to ensure the levels of walks were suitable for the group. As the week progressed we were able to take in wonderful views and interesting features such as Castlerigg Stone Circle and Winlatter Forest. The more experienced walkers chose to hike up Haystacks, braving the driving wind and rain, and participants were able to test their physical abilities to the limits. This also allowed them the opportunity to observe and monitor the effects of their diabetes whilst having the support of professionals should any problems have occurred. It was felt to be of great benefit to discuss and advise as issues arose to the specific needs of the individual.

During the evening, the cosy lounge gave us an ideal setting for relaxed, informal chats, providing everyone with the opportunity for one-to-one education and advice. Some used this time as an opportunity to see Jayne Charlesworth, the podiatrist, who tended to any sore feet and got them back on the road for the following day.

The week progressed, friendships developed and the benefits of peer support became apparent. More so on the night out at the local hostelry; the evening was filled with fun and laughter, especially when one of the group fell over landing in the coal bucket (no injuries occurred).

The holiday was a very enjoyable and valuable opportunity to take our skills away from the healthcare setting into the lives of people who live with this condition. We couldn’t have wished for a better setting or better company and are looking forward to next year’s "trip"!