I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 11; 15 years ago this year. I hadn’t been showing symptoms, or been unwell for long at all, so it came as a huge shock to me and my family. Having my life change so drastically so suddenly, was really difficult to deal with.

It was daily stream of finger prick tests to monitor my blood glucose levels, insulin injections, and micro managing all of my daily tasks, like eating, exercise and sleeping, to ensure my blood glucose levels maintained a balanced level.

Despite having the condition for so many years, having so much more knowledge now, and looking after myself as best I can, it is still hugely challenging and draining on a daily basis.

However, Diabetes management and technology has come along way since my diagnosis, making T1 feel a little easier to monitor day to day; mainly due to organisations such as JDRF, who have been a constant source of information, guidance and life changing support for me, since that start. I can’t think of a more worthy cause to be raising money for.

400,000 people are currently living with type 1 diabetes in the UK, I want to change that.

Every £11 could help a recently diagnosed child no longer feel alone with their type 1 diabetes. They now have a fluffy best friend called Rufus who also has type 1 diabetes, and special felt patches on his test and injection sites to help children practice on.

Every £25 could pay for an hour of research nurse support for someone involved in a clinical trial, which could ultimately lead to the next big breakthrough. Without this support there would be no trial.

Every £115 could pay for one person to be screened for type 1 diabetes, to help prevent undiagnosed complications and save lives.

Thank you for your support, whatever you donate is really appreciated. Together, we can help to cure type 1 diabetes!