SIR - It can be very distressing when you are told you have diabetes. Most of us didn't know anything about the condition until we were diagnosed. All I wanted to do at the time was to meet someone else with the condition who was leading a normal life - someone who could give me tips and advice about day-to-day life with diabetes and maybe answer questions which I felt were too trivial to ask my doctor.

If you have diabetes, or you care for someone with diabetes and would like to have an informal chat with people who have experienced the things which are worrying you, call 01604 622837. We will be pleased to hear from you.

SUE MORRIS,

Fernhill Heath.