Next stop on Bren-doc Nelson’s Magical Listening Tour bus!

It is not often that you have the opportunity to sit with a group of Australians that are prepared to open up and explain the hardships that they and their families face.

Except for every day of your Magical Listening Tour, according to your diary.

I had such an opportunity at the Frankston Private Day Surgery today with families from different circumstances but who all have at least one child with insulin dependent diabetes.

I hope you said, “Do you know I’m a doctor? Can I help?”

Sandy – a sole parent – has two insulin dependent children and became quite emotional when she was explaining that she could not afford the $16,000 necessary to provide an insulin pump for her children.

Insulin pumps have been an outstanding breakthrough in the management of insulin dependent diabetes, keeping blood glucose levels at a stable level and therefore reducing the crippling long-term consequences of uncontrolled diabetes and reducing also life expectancy.

I bet you know that because you’re a doctor.

These families – in some cases with three children suffering from insulin dependent diabetes – have found life extraordinarily difficult. The constant attention to diet, exercise and weight, interaction with the medical profession and battling to balance jobs with family commitments is nothing short of inspirational.

It will require $35 million over three years to provide 5,000 insulin pumps for Australia’s insulin dependent children. We should put our kids first and make this funding available to them.

John Howard had eleven years to do it. And he would’ve if that $35 million secured him more than just 5,000 measly votes.

I will be focused on the Government’s Budget to see whether they deliver for these children and their families.

Australia breathes a sigh of relief knowing that you’ll focus on that one small aspect of the government’s budget, Brendan.

Hi, I’m Brendan Nelson. Do you know I’m a doctor? I’m here to help with your colouring in.