Elizabeth Esi Donyoh, diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) at the age of 8, exemplifies resilience and advocacy. Now 57 and a mother of three, she has made it her mission to fight for diabetes awareness and support in Ghana and across Africa. Esi’s journey with diabetes began before her diagnosis, as she experienced frequent health issues during her childhood, often collapsing and feeling weak. It wasn’t until the age of 17 that she received a formal diagnosis and began understanding the complexities of living with T1D. Initially, she led a somewhat reckless lifestyle, believing that life might be short due to her condition. However, with the guidance of dedicated healthcare professionals, she transitioned towards a disciplined lifestyle centered on proper nutrition and exercise, which ultimately shaped her into a dedicated advocate for diabetes care.
Esi’s advocacy started to take shape when she contributed to the revitalization of the National Association of Diabetes, Ghana (NADG) in 1981. Her leadership roles culminated in her position as Chairperson of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) for the Africa Region. Esi’s work with NADG has lasted over 20 years and emphasizes her commitment to supporting individuals with diabetes, especially those from rural and underserved areas. She recognizes the struggles many face in accessing affordable healthcare and understands that expensive medications often place a significant financial burden on patients. In Ghana, while the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) offers some coverage, it often doesn’t adequately meet the needs of diabetes patients, forcing many into a dire situation where they remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed until it’s too late.
The plight of children with diabetes is especially close to Esi’s heart. Through her “Life for a Child” program, she has managed to provide free insulin, glucometers, and essential medical supplies to over 1,860 children in Ghana. Esi’s mission is to ensure that no child suffers or dies from complications related to diabetes due to a lack of resources. Her advocacy is driven by a vision where awareness, education, and access to proper tools empower young individuals living with diabetes to lead normal lives. Her work underscores a critical need in Ghana, which the World Health Organization categorizes as a region facing a silent epidemic, where millions are unaware of their diabetic status and the severe impacts this can have on their health.
Data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reveals alarming statistics about diabetes’ global presence, with an estimated 240 million cases of undiagnosed diabetes worldwide. The research highlights a staggering prevalence of diabetes-related deaths, particularly among people under 70. In Ghana, the Non-Communicable Disease Directorate reports about 2.4 million diabetics, and the rising numbers suggest a demographic shift towards Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) fueled by shifts in diet and lifestyle choices. Although Esi lives with T1D, she acknowledges the need to address T2D, which is preventable and often linked to dietary habits. Experts like Dr. Efua Commeh stress the significance of balanced meals and portion control as preventive measures against the growing Diabetes epidemic.
Esi herself has a family history of diabetes, with both her parents and relatives grappling with the condition. This personal connection propels her to advocate for enhanced diabetes care and training in Ghana, emphasizing the need for nurses specialized in diabetes management who can deliver quality healthcare. As she leads efforts within the IDF Africa Region, Esi calls upon governmental agencies in Africa, including Ghana, to implement policies that prioritize diabetes prevention and treatment. She yearns for systemic changes that can provide people with resources and support, paving the way for improved health outcomes and enriched lives.
Despite facing complications from her condition, including retinal detachment and kidney issues, Esi remains resolute in her mission. Her dedication is fueled by her love for her family and her desire to empower and inform younger generations living with diabetes. She underscores the need for community-building among those affected by diabetes and the importance of awareness through education. Esi’s ongoing commitment illustrates that while the challenge of diabetes is significant, it is not insurmountable. She envisions a future where Ghana’s national health policies comprehensively address the prevention and care of diabetes, ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare services and life-sustaining medications for all individuals living with this chronic illness.
