Sophie's page
Sophie Ferguson is raising money for Action4Diabetes
Story
Casually speaking about running a marathon but never actually committing to it - me all over. Whilst dry Jan didn't last, I thought I'd raise the bar a bit higher and sign up to my first marathon, running in May 2018.
To make it all worthwhile I'll be supporting a great charity, A4D (action4diabetes). For many of you who've never come across this before (including myself until recently) - A4D develop and deliver a range of support programs across South-East Asia that enable young people with Type 1 Diabetes to live a full and productive life. They currently support 221 young people with Type 1 Diabetes and aim to increase this to 600+ by 2020. Why South-East Asia? Thousands of young people with Type 1 Diabetes still die every year in the region due to lack of diagnosis and under treatment.
Facts:
- Worldwide 400 MILLION people are living with Diabetes
- By 2035 ONE IN TEN people will have Diabetes
- A Type 1 Diabetic cannot live for longer than 6 MONTHS without insulin
- Every 8 MINUTES a child is diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes
- Every 30 SECONDS a hand or foot is lost to Diabetes
It's easy to take healthcare for granted, I know I did. Having managed Type 1 Diabetes for almost 17 years now - through quick diagnosis (thanks mum!), accessible medication & reliable consultations - it got me thinking, what would have happened had none of this been available?! In this day and age the number of young people faced with such reality almost seems shocking.
That being said, A4D are helping more and more young Diabetics in SE Asia to receive the diagnosis and treatment they need to live well into their older years.
I'm hoping this small commitment will make a real difference. All donations, large or small, are much appreciated!!
Thanks for supporting.
Sophie xx