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Exclusive: Dyan Henry, a 45-year-old Australian woman, is facing a heartbreaking dilemma: managing her Type 1 diabetes or keeping a roof over her head. The rising cost of rent in Sydney has pushed her to the brink, forcing her to make impossible choices that directly impact her health.

Just last week, Dyan was rushing to pick up her child from school when her continuous glucose monitor (CGM) blared an urgent alarm. Her blood sugar had plummeted to a dangerously low level. This isn't an isolated incident. Living with Type 1 diabetes requires constant monitoring and management, but the financial strain is making it increasingly difficult.

“I don’t want to die,” Dyan confessed, her voice filled with anxiety. “But I don’t know how much longer I can keep this up. The rent is just crippling.” She’s been grappling with the escalating cost of living for months, and the pressure is taking a toll on her physical and mental wellbeing.

Dyan relies on a CGM and insulin pumps – vital tools for managing her condition. These devices, along with the necessary supplies, are expensive. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides some assistance, but it's often not enough to cover the full cost, particularly with the skyrocketing rent prices.

“It’s a constant calculation,” she explains. “Do I buy more insulin supplies, or do I pay the rent? Do I skip a doctor's appointment to save money? It's exhausting and terrifying.” She’s been forced to cut back on essentials, including healthy food options that are crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Dyan’s story is a stark reminder of the growing crisis facing many Australians, particularly those with chronic illnesses. The rising cost of living is disproportionately impacting vulnerable individuals, forcing them to make impossible choices between their health and basic necessities.

The Bigger Picture: A System in Crisis

Dyan’s plight highlights a systemic problem within Australia. While the NDIS aims to support people with disabilities, the current funding model often falls short, leaving individuals like Dyan struggling to cope. The lack of affordable housing further exacerbates the situation, creating a perfect storm of financial and health challenges.

Advocates are calling for urgent action to address the affordability crisis and provide greater support for people living with chronic conditions. Increased funding for the NDIS, rent relief measures, and improved access to healthcare are just some of the solutions being proposed.

Hope for the Future?

Despite the challenges she faces, Dyan remains determined to fight for her health and her future. She’s sharing her story to raise awareness of the issues and to inspire others to speak out. “I just want people to know that they’re not alone,” she says. “We need to demand change and ensure that everyone has the right to live a healthy and dignified life, regardless of their financial circumstances.”

Dyan's story serves as a powerful call to action for policymakers and the community to address the growing affordability crisis and ensure that vulnerable Australians receive the support they need to thrive.