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Lucy Allen is a 'Teen Achiever of the Year' finalist

Release Date: 02-Aug-2012 | Go Back

Roseville College Year 11 student and Type 1 Diabetic, Lucy Allen, is one of three 'Teen Achiever of the Year' finalists in the Sweet Talk Awards that close next week, on 6 August. 

Having lived with Type 1 Diabetes for eight years, Lucy Allen does not let the condition hamper her dreams – she recently completed a personally challenging 5 day, high-altitude climb in Peru with 18 Roseville College classmates to fulfil the expedition component of her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Coordinator Miss Emily Shanahan, one of two teachers who accompanied the students, says Lucy and the team were well prepared knowing Lucy would be far from specialised medical help during the trip. Previously, she had not been away from her parents for more than four nights in a row.

Lucy, who also rallied her peers to participate in a fundraising walk for diabetes research, is proud of her efforts. “It was testing, but completing it was the most amazing feeling I’ve ever experienced. I promise you, completing a dream and overcoming adversity is the most important thing you could ever do.'

The 2nd annual “Sweet Talk Awards” aim to raise awareness, and acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of everyday Australians who live with diabetes, Australia’s fasting growing chronic condition. More than a million Australians live with diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes. Winners receive a trophy and $1000 towards another experience of a lifetime. Finalists have been selected by Marcia Hines, Peter Howard and a panel of prominent healthcare professionals. 

Roseville College began offering this style of overseas expeditions for students in 1999 and, since then, more than 350 students have experienced countries (and cultures) including Morocco, Laos, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, India, Nepal and Borneo. In 2012, students are going to Tanzania and Nepal. Lucy’s expedition to Peru included five days of hiking and 20 days at altitude between 30 November – 23 December 2012. 

For more information and to vote for Lucy, visit www.sweettalkdiabetes.com.au/home/sweet-talk-awards/teen-achiever-of-the-year-finalists/lucy-allen.

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