Having overcome a series of diabetes-related challenges during the last 30 years, Anna is taking on a new type of challenge - running a half marathon.
Anna's story
I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 8, back in 1988. I spent a week in the hospital learning all about the disease and perfecting the art of injecting myself with syringes and a bottle of insulin - a lot to take on board at that age.
Growing up, I wanted to be like everyone else. I didn't want to have to worry about my sugars, insulin and what I was eating and it took its toll. This played a massive part in my struggle as a teenager, I was admitted to hospital with ketoacidosis which was horrific.
I met my husband Charlie in 2001, and now we have two awesome boys, Finn and Jake. Charlie has saved me a number of times with my diabetic nightmares, for which I am eternally grateful. The pregnancies with my boys were not altogether straightforward, with them both being born six weeks early and being admitted to the special care baby unit in Northampton.
"I started running in January 2018... It has come with challenges but a better understanding of what my body can do."
This year, I approached my diabetes doctor with a serious question to ask - ‘can I have a new pancreas or an insulin pump?’ We thought best to go with an insulin pump. He listened and supported me all the way, and I am now on an insulin pump to help me manage my diabetes better. For me, this is a massive WIN.
I started running in January 2018 as a challenge to myself, unfit and diabetic... could I do it? YES, I could. I run with my friend Kay three times a week in all weathers just to prove we can do it. It has come with challenges but a better understanding of what my body can do.
Why Diabetes UK? This year marks 30 years of me having diabetes, so with the support from my family and friends, new running legs and insulin pump, I thought what better way to celebrate by running The Great North Run. I’ll be raising awareness, and much needed money for a great charity that educates, researches, supports and guides people with the disease.
"I would love to see a cure for diabetes in the not too distant future, you’ve got to think BIG!"
Since my diagnosis, I have tested my blood sugars over 45,000 times and injected myself with insulin over 30,000 times. As well as many visits to the doctors, diabetes team and time in the hospital. What do I want to see change? I would love to see a cure for diabetes in the not too distant future. You’ve got to think BIG!
I’m just a girl, with diabetes, standing in front of you with a pair of trainers, asking for you to support and sponsor me in aid of me & Diabetes UK.
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Interested in taking on your own challenge?
To support Anna in her challenge, please visit her fundraising page
