On 21 July 2026, our beautiful little girl, Lilly, aged just 9, from Aberystwyth, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

It all began with symptoms we didn’t fully understand at the time — Lilly was constantly thirsty, always tired, complaining of stomach pain, eating more than usual, and struggling to keep up in the sports she once loved. Looking back now, we realise her little body had been fighting something serious for a while.

When we took her to hospital, everything changed very quickly. Lilly spent a night in Bronglais Hospital before being transferred to the specialist diabetes team at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen. It was a frightening and emotional time for us as a family, but we will always be grateful for the kindness, patience, and incredible care shown to Lilly and to us.

At Glangwili, Lilly began learning something no child should have to learn so young — how to manage life with Type 1 diabetes. From injections to blood sugar checks, she has shown more bravery than we ever thought possible. Even on the hardest days, she keeps going with a smile that inspires everyone around her.

What has amazed us most is Lilly herself. Instead of letting this diagnosis hold her back, she has chosen to face it with courage and kindness. She wants to help other families recognise the early signs of Type 1 diabetes, so no child has to go through what she did without answers. She also wants to give something back to the amazing diabetes clinic at Glangwili Hospital, who have supported her from the very beginning.

To help raise awareness and funds, weather permitting, Lilly will be taking on a very special challenge — climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) on 12 September, surrounded by her family and friends who will be right there beside her every step of the way.

This climb is more than just a walk up a mountain. For Lilly, it represents strength, hope, and proving to herself that diabetes will never stop her from doing big things in life.

Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly towards supporting the children’s diabetes clinic at Glangwili Hospital, helping other children like Lilly receive the care, education, and support they need. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page would mean just as much to us.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Lilly, for helping us raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes, and for cheering her on as she takes on this incredible challenge.

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