This is my nephew William Wallis (our family's very own Braveheart!). He is a bright 17 year old studying for his A levels and making plans to go off to University in September 2016. He is a talented photographer and is an accomplished all round sportsman who plays football, rugby and cricket when he isn't refereeing football, being a lifeguard or a swimming instructor.

But back in 2004 when William was only 6, he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. So through his childhood, he lived with the added layers of complexity - trying to live a full, active and normal life living with the daily challenge of monitoring what he could and couldn't eat and trying to maintain stable blood sugar levels. The possible dangers of his blood sugars getting too high or too low - a constant worry and concern for his family, could have life limiting effect.

There are 3.3 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK and an estimated 590,000 people who have the condition, but don’t know it.  Diabetes UK help thousands of people like William, and their families, who live with Diabetes which is a life long condition. There is no cure. They are also doing valuable research into this disease and will hopefully, one day, find a cure. On 17th April, my challenge will be to run for 4.5 - 5 hours to complete the Brighton Marathon but for amazing people like William - they live with their challenge every single day of their life.

Please sponsor me to raise money for Diabetes UK - an amazing charity which helps my nephew, my uncle (Brian), my cousin's son (Jude), my school friends daughter (Jasmine), my friend's husband (David) and thousands and thousands of others every day - I'm sure we all know someone. Every penny you donate will go direct to Diabetes UK and donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Many, many thanks from me...and now I better get back to my training!

Sam