Steve Dixon's Story
Sky TV presenter Steve Dixon was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was 17 years old, mid-way through his A-levels. Now 34, he has achieved a successful career as a news presenter, and is a big advocate on the importance of self-management to carefully monitor his diabetes.
Diagnosis was a complete shock at first but has had many positive effects on my life”, explains Steve Dixon. “It has taught me to look after my health. Careful self management of my condition enables me to live the varied and stimulating life that I’m fortunate enough to lead.
Steve recalls his first hospital experience, “I can still remember my diabetes nurse telling me to hold my first insulin injection like a dagger. I was told from the very beginning the importance of self control and of being in charge of my own health. Luckily, I’ve always been a gadget freak and I think being 17 I was young enough to embrace the change and mature enough to understand the importance of looking after my condition properly.”
Taking Control
After diagnosis, Steve walked out of the hospital with his syringe, fully briefed and supported by his healthcare team to start a new life of regular blood glucose testing and insulin injections. It was suggested that he take a year out of his education to get used to his diagnosis but, being focused and determined, Steve chose to continue with his A-levels and in the end achieved the good grades.
Steve has now been a Sky News presenter for eight years. He pays close attention to his health, and is on a low carb diet, with plenty of exercise. He regularly monitors his blood glucose levels and on an average day when he is presenting, he can test up to eight times, as his levels can be erractic due to early starts and late finishes.
Testing on air
Steve often tests his blood glucose levels midway through the show and immediately after, as the adrenaline of being on-air can affect the levels. If ever he feels a bit light headed, he asks for some chocolate. Steve says: “Because of the nature of my job, I don’t want to risk having a hypo on-air. Therefore, testing is essential to me doing my job properly.” He finishes the show at midnight. Steve feels that diabetes runs underneath what he does, but it doesn’t get in the way. “People must take control of their diabetes and not let it take control of them.”
Steve Dixon is on Sky News at Ten weekday evenings and Sky News Tonight at 11pm every weekday.