Sweet Talk Awards
2011 Winner Carer
Sweet Talk AwardsCarer of the Year
Congratulations - Dirk Wasmann
“We deal with everyday situations like anyone else. We don’t know any different. Diabetes doesn’t have to get in anyone’s way; it just takes a little more planning and preparation sometimes. There are situations that are far worse than diabetes, and we are grateful for three happy, healthy children to share our lives with” - Dirk Wasmann
Dirk, who decided to be a stay-at-home father to his children so his wife could have a career, didn’t realise he would become the primary carer of three boys who were all diagnosed with diabetes at less than 16 months of age. Kieran, now 13, was diagnosed at 11 months old, Sam (11) and Regan (8) were both 15 months of age when diagnosed.
Dirk is determined not to allow the challenges of diabetes to impact his boys lives who are very active and compete in motocross across WA. Dirk is often seen on the start line with a spanner in one hand and blood glucose monitor in the other, ensuring bike and rider are right to race.
Raising the three boys in rural WA and managing their condition, without extended family support, has been a challenge for Dirk, giving him little opportunity for time out as he juggles the boy’s school life, diabetes management and his own part-time job.
An inspiration to his family and community, Dirk allows his boys to continue to be active and healthy, never letting diabetes hold them back.
“Dad does the most wonderful and brilliant job” - Kieran Wasmann
