Inspirational Littleborough volunteer receives award from Diabetes UK

Emma Parke from Diabetes UK, the Mayor of Rochdale Mohammed Zaman and Henry Gerber with his Inspire Award from Diabetes UK

Henry Gerber, 68, from Smithy Bridge, was presented with the award for his work supporting people with diabetes by the Mayor Mohammad Zaman.

Dad-of-two Henry has been volunteering for Diabetes UK for over six years and received the ‘Supporting Diabetes UK’ award, at an event at his local church, the Branches Christian Fellowship in Rochdale.

Henry said: “I’m honoured to receive this award but a little shocked too. I got involved with Diabetes UK after my own struggles with diabetes. After my diagnosis, I didn’t manage the condition which led to complications. It was this that made me take diabetes seriously and I hope that I can help other people realise that too.”

Having been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes 15 years ago, Henry had a stroke which was related to his condition. He has volunteered at a variety of events across the north of England, is trained to help people find out their risk of Type 2 diabetes and regularly talks to people about life with diabetes.

Henry added: “I know how difficult it can be to live with diabetes and how important it is to be able to manage the condition properly. Helping other people with diabetes and those at risk of Type 2 is really important to me but volunteering has also helped me learn from other people and to understand how they live with the condition.”

Mayor Zaman said: “It was a great honour to present Henry with a special award on behalf of Diabetes UK for his services. Henry is a volunteer who has offered tremendous voluntary service through Diabetes UK and made a huge difference to the lives of many people.

"Diabetes UK is making a tremendous contribution to our communities through, research, information, face to face and online advice.”

Emma Parke, Diabetes UK Volunteer Coordinator said: “It is a pleasure to be able to show Henry how grateful we are for all his hard work and dedication. His support never wanes and continues to help us realise our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm. We were incredibly honoured to be able to present him with this award.”