Becky’s Story

I am Becky, my daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes aged 7 and my nephew at the tender age of 13 months. Since their life-changing diagnosis, my family and I have run many fundraising events (including charity balls, half and full marathons, and even ultras, as well as swimming challenges, and conquering the Zambezi River Rapids!). Together we have raised over £55k for Diabetes research, and our work will continue until we find a practical cure.

In 2014 we, and some other parents/carers alongside Diabetes UK, set up Plymouth Sugar Zappers (PSZ). A local support group for children with diabetes and their families, of which I am now the Chair. PSZ hosts fun and educational events for families living with diabetes to share their experiences and support one another with the ongoing daily battles of managing this very difficult, lifelong condition.

I was invited to join the Experts by Experience programme by Well Connected and have enjoyed sharing our story and experiences to help inform and add an important angle to the learning of our future medical and healthcare professionals.