Devon nurse wins £250k for improving diabetes care
She beat more than 50,000 medical colleagues across the world to win the prize
A nurse from Devon has won £250k for her work in improving diabetes care.
Margaret Shepherd, from Exeter, beat worldwide competition to win the prize at the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2023.
The 60-year-old was chosen from over 52,000 applicants across 202 countries, taking the award thanks to her efforts to improve diabetes diagnoses.
Ms Shepherd set up a national network of genetic diabetes nurses in 2002 to raise awareness of the condition and prevent misdiagnosis, which can lead to unnecessary insulin injections, and has become the leading nurse for monogenic diabetes in the UK and a consultant for clinicians across the world.
Speaking at the awards on Friday night, she said: ""I am shaking. I'm truly honoured,"
"In 1981 I started my nursing career at King's College London and I was working on a diabetes ward.
"Little did I know that my career would continue in this field... I was the first diabetes specialist nurse looking at rare genetic forms of diabetes to ensure the correct diagnosis.
"As healthcare professionals, we are privileged to be able to make a positive impact on the lives of our patients, and I feel blessed to be part of such a rewarding profession.
"This award not only recognises my personal achievements but also highlights the importance of nursing as a critical component of healthcare."
The award was launched on International Nurses Day in May 2021 by Aster DM Healthcare and aims to recognise the contribution of nurses worldwide.
Dr Azad Moopen, founder chairman and managing director of Aster DM Healthcare, said of Ms Shepherd: "She has exemplified the highest standards of patient care and dedication that is inspirational, and it deserves global recognition.
"Each one of the top 10 finalists have done phenomenal work and the grand jury had a tough time assessing and selecting the final winner."