I am an 18-year-old university student. At the age of 10 I was diagnosed as a type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic.

The government provided my insulin. At first, I was using syringes to take the insulin but when my sugar level was controlled my consultant decided that I should use insulin pens instead. They are more convenient since they are easier to carry and the needle is also smaller, reducing my bruises and pain. Furthermore, the pen is very discreet and has made my life easier.

A year ago my consultant changed my insulin to a new type named Lantus and Novorapid once again.

He explained that this will ensure better control of my sugar levels. However, this caused great inconvenience to me as I had to use syringes once again.

This was not because the new type of insulin could not be administered by pen but simply because the government did not supply them. However, I was advised that this would change when the contract with the supplier is finalised.

Regrettably, the government recently started supplying pens for insulin only to patients under 16. Therefore, I am still using syringes. I cannot purchase the insulin because I am still studying and cannot afford it.

I think this is unfair to me and all the other diabetics in the same situation. This is discrimination when you realise that the government supplies much more expensive medicine than the one I am using. Is it not time to change this?