A DUNFERMLINE councillor is sharing her story after she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in August.

Cllr Auxie Barrera said she knew she needed to make a change and since then has lost two stone and is now looking to raise awareness of the disease.

She told the Press: "I always had a very sweet tooth, I love chocolate, ice-cream, sweeties. In August this year, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but this is reversible, I was told I must lose weight.

"The day I was diagnosed, I promised myself that I had to change, that I had to reverse my diabetes. Just two weeks after my diagnosis, I managed to lose nearly 11 pounds and now, three months after my diagnosis, I have lost nearly two stone without a diet, only by avoiding sugar.

"I'm also aware that a change in my diet is not everything and I have to exercise. That's why I have decided to go the gym again to help my body to get lighter through exercise."

Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes the blood sugar levels in the blood to become too high but it can be put into remission by losing weight as quickly as possible after diagnosis.

Cllr Barrera continued: "I’ve decided to speak out as today (Monday, November 14) is Diabetes International Day and it is very important that we raise awareness on the consequences of being diabetic, some people can avoid being diabetic and it's important that they feel supported.

"Speak up, don't feel ashamed or embarrassed to say that you are diabetic and need help, look after yourself, because by looking after yourself you are looking after your loved ones.

"Of course, speak to your healthcare team for more advice about what’s best for you before starting anything new or have some concerns, they can help you decide what’s safe and consider any complications you may have."

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes include peeing more than usual, particularly at night, feeling thirsty all the time, feeling very tired, losing weight without trying to, itching around your penis or vagina, or getting thrush repeatedly, cuts or wounds taking longer to heal and blurred vision.

If you have any of these symptoms or are worried you are at risk of getting this disease, the NHS recommend seeing your GP.