Word. Please do take a minute to read this.

I'm running the Bupa London 10,000 on 27 May to help raise money for Diabetes UK. As I'm sure you know, running's not my thing. In fact you might find it pretty shocking that I'm even considering running any distance of note. I still can't quite get my head around the fact I'm doing it... 

But do you know what's even more shocking?

Diabetes causes more deaths than breast and prostate cancer combined.

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people of working age in the UK.

100 amputations are carried out each week because of diabetes, most of which could be avoided.

Babies of women with diabetes are 5 times more likely to...

I can't type that one out. It's too upsetting to think about, especially when with the right care and support, this and all the issues listed above, can be greatly reduced and even avoided. There are more worrying stats here that show just how serious diabetes is.

I'll add a disclaimer here that I work for Diabetes UK. But I wouldn't still be working for them - or raising money for them - if I didn't believe the work they do is of such immense value to people with all types of diabetes (and even those who don't have the condition). Through care events, Careline, advocacy, campaigning, roadshows, online support the charity helps everyone with diabetes, regardless of what type they have. 

The NHS is failing people with diabetes. People simply aren't always getting the care they need. And whilst the charity fight for this to improve, we need to be here to support, advise, encourage and empower people living with the condition to help them avoid the horrific complications associated with it - just some of which are mentioned above.

Any money you can spare will mean a lot to me as encouragement to get around the 10k course, but it'll mean more to the people with diabetes that are supported by Diabetes UK.

Thanks for reading. Now text JOEF60 and your donation amount to 70700 or click the donate button over there. Go go go.

Thank you. #runjoerun

Here's some official info about donating thruogh JustGiving (even thought you've done this hundreds of time already):

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Over and out.