I am setting out on an adventure by bicycle, from the United Kingdom to New Zealand via many of the points in between, places that I'd normally bypass by 30,000 feet, places that for me only exist on maps and in newspaper articles.

This journey has been several years in the planning, but it wasn't until I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 35 that I resolved to make it happen whatever the cost.

Two years and two months after my diagnosis the adventure has begun. I have a dream of inspiring other Diabetics and showing everyone that the disease needn't be a barrier to following your dreams.

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Please give generously, and by all means, follow the journey online at http://twitter.com/agreatd1stance and http://www.agreatdistance.org!