The Griffith Support Group for Diabetes will be holding their AGM at the Exies Club to elect an executive and committee.

Former president Tom Marriott said if the group was unable to elect office bearers the money donated by local people and businesses would be lost to the governing state body.

“We have been left with thousands of dollars donated by individuals and organisations from Griffith, Leeton, Narrandera, Darlington Point and Hay specifically for the benefit of people with diabetes in this area,” Mr Marriott said.

“If we can’t place the money with some worthwhile diabetes project the only alternative will be to donate the money to research and wind up the group.”

There were an estimated 1800 people diagnosed with diabetes in the area and hundreds more that may not yet be diagnosed, according to Mr Marriott.

“It would be nice to see a good roll up at the AGM,” he said. “My hope is some opportunity will present itself with either Griffith Base Hospital or the new private hospital to spend the money to benefit people with diabetes. I have had six loyal supporters who have kept the meetings alive throughout the year, but we need more people with ideas and a willingness to partake in meetings.”

The support group had been operating for 30 years.

Statistics released this week showed half of all Australians have at least one chronic disease such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, cancer and depression among others.

Federal health minister Sussan Ley said the prevention and treatment of chronic disease was an increasing challenge for the health system and Australians generally. “It is concerning these stats show not only do half of all Australians have a chronic disease but one-in-five have at least two of the most common eight chronic diseases including diabetes, cardio-vascular disease and mental health conditions,” Ms Ley said.

The diabetes support group AGM will be held at Griffith Exies Club from 1pm on Wednesday August 19.

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