I've had Type 1 diabetes for over 16 years and it is Hard Work. It affects every aspect of my life - eating, sleeping, exercising are all so much more complicated because of it.

Nobody knows why people develop Type 1 diabetes (it's an autoimmune condition), and there's no cure. But with a lot of effort, it can be managed. Diabetes is hugely misunderstood and affects over 4 million people in the UK alone.

The complications of diabetes can be devastating.  Each week, diabetes leads to over 460 early deaths and over 140 lower limb amputations.

Diabetes is a difficult condition to manage doesn't only affect my physically, but mentally too, as constant blood glucose checks and insulin doses can take their toll.  It leads to hours of lost sleep and puts huge demands on me and every single person managing it day in, day out.

So, after over two years of niggling injuries, I'm taking on my third and final marathon for Diabetes UK.  I'm older, fatter, more tired and less fit, so it's fair to say this one could be the most challenging of them all.

If you can spare a couple of quid to help me towards my target, you'll be making a huge difference to supporting people living with diabetes.  Thank you.