Neil McLagan

Immune Kamikaze | Diabetes Podcast

In this episode I talk to type 1 diabetic Neil McLagan from Perth in Western Australia. Not only does Neil have type 1 diabetes, Neil has hashimoto's hypothyroidism and Celiac disease symptoms which we discuss at length in the episode. Type 1 diabetes itself is an extremely complex and high maintenance disease but to couple that with hypothyroidism and Celiac disease – I can only imagine how tough that must be. But Neil’s positivity and determination to manage all three conditions is extraordinary.

Neil and I discuss his diagnosis story with type 1 diabetes and its impact on his life when he was 17. Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teenager adds to the already challenging period in one’s life and we discuss Neil’s struggles with adapting to the diagnosis. We also discuss alcohol and its impact on diabetes, especially in the teenage and younger years.

Neil has a keen interest on nutrition and getting the most out of his body as a sufferer of multiple conditions. We discuss several interesting topics such as low carbohydrate diets, the consumption of diary and benefits of reducing certain food groups and fueling your body from ketones, not to be confused with ketoacidosis.

In 2018 Neil cycled unsupported from Perth to Sydney on this bicycle totaling 4011km in 20 days. Neil averaged 9 hours on the bike each day and some days, cycled over 250km. The ride was grueling as Neil suffered both mental and physical exhaustion and incurred several injuries along the way. However, Neil’s determination kept him going until he reached the end and demonstrating nothing will stop you from achieving your dreams and goals if you put your mind to it. Neil and I discuss the motivation for the ride and how he raised over $19,000 for the Telethon Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre.

Neil and I discuss the topic of access of insulin as Neil is raising money for Insulin for Life Global via his Everesting attempt, which aims to provide insulin for diabetics in developing nations. The Everesting challenge is a cycling challenge where you pick any hill and repeatedly ride said hill to the height of Everest, which is 8848 meters, in a single activity – no small feat indeed!

Neil is a top bloke and was completely open to discuss his highs and lows with living with three demanding chronic conditions. It was an absolute pleasure speaking to Neil and I’m sure you’ll find his positivity and can do attitude infectious.

One of the best parts of hosting this podcast is being connected with people like Neil. Each guest of the podcast I’ve learnt from and I hope as a guest you’re able to take something away from each episode also. Specifically, knowing that you’re not alone and there’s many more of us suffering with the same condition also. Let Neil’s story encourage you and remind you that if you put your mind to it, you too can achieve greatness, even as a type 1 diabetic.