Chris & Caleb Take on Tough Mudder 15K for East Sussex Children's Diabetes Team

On Saturday 19th September, my 16-year-old son, Caleb, and I will be taking on the 15K Tough Mudder London South challenge to raise money for the East Sussex Children's Diabetes Team.

This challenge means far more to us than simply crossing a finish line.

In December 2024, our lives changed overnight when Caleb was suddenly and unexpectedly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.

Like so many families, we were suddenly faced with a whole new way of life. Overnight we had to learn about insulin injections, blood glucose monitoring, carbohydrate counting, hypos, hypers and everything that comes with managing a lifelong condition. It was frightening, overwhelming and completely unexpected.

Thankfully, from the very beginning, the East Sussex Children's Diabetes Team were there to guide us through every step of that journey.

The team includes consultants, specialist diabetes nurses, a dietitian, psychologist and coordinator who provide ongoing support and education to children, young people, parents, carers, schools and colleges across East Sussex. Based at both Eastbourne District General Hospital and Conquest Hospital, they also provide support within the community, ensuring families never have to face the challenges of Type 1 Diabetes alone.

Most of the children they support are living with Type 1 Diabetes, a lifelong condition with no cure, meaning they rely on insulin every single day for the rest of their lives.

For our family, the team didn't just teach us how to manage diabetes—they gave us reassurance, confidence and hope during one of the most difficult times we've ever experienced. We genuinely can't thank them enough for everything they've done for Caleb and for us as a family.

Alongside the incredible medical care they provide, the team also raises charitable funds to organise activities, educational events and family days out for the children and young people they support. These have included bowling, skating, crazy golf, trips to Blackberry Farm and Knockhatch, pantomime visits and community fun days.

These events are about so much more than simply having a fun day out.

They give children living with diabetes the opportunity to meet others their own age who truly understand what life is like with the condition. They allow families to share experiences, support one another and build friendships with people walking the same journey. The feedback from families is always incredibly positive, and these events continue to grow in popularity because of the difference they make.

The team's ethos is simple: children and young people should live well with diabetes and never let it become a barrier to living a full and happy life.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes is a challenge 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It can be unpredictable, exhausting and relentless—not just for the child, but for the whole family. That's exactly why these activities are so important. Every child deserves the chance to simply have fun, build confidence and create happy memories with others who understand what they're going through.

That's why Caleb and I have decided to take on Tough Mudder together.

We'll be tackling over 15 kilometres of mud, water and obstacles—not because it will be easy, but because we want to give something back to the incredible team who have given our family so much.

Every pound raised will help the East Sussex Children's Diabetes Team continue providing these invaluable opportunities for local children, young people and their families.

If you're able to support us, no matter how big or small your donation, we'd be incredibly grateful.

Thank you for helping us give something back to an amazing team and helping more local children living with Type 1 Diabetes create memories that will last a lifetime.

Chris & Caleb