Thank you for visiting Erin’s page. We just wanted to tell you a little bit more about what Erin is doing and why...

In June we became very concerned about Erin as she seemed unwell. A trip to the GP had her admitted to hospital where Erin was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes - an autoimmune condition that mistakenly attacks the cells of the pancreas, so it no longer produces insulin.

All we knew was Erin would be insulin dependent for the rest of her life and that is what would keep her alive. Nothing could have been done to prevent this happening, its a genetic condition that would inevitably present itself. Sadly there is no cure.

Erin found it hard to understand. No five year old likes having needles but now Erin has to receive 4 injections a day as well as constant finger pricking to check her blood glucose levels. Erin is being very brave while we get used to this new routine, which at times can be exhausting for all of us.

Part of being a Type 1 diabetic means Erin will suffer hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes, this can effect her moods and make her feel very poorly. There is a massive risk of Erin becoming seriously ill from either and she could end up having a seizure or worse go into a diabetic coma. Simple things like a trip to the park or a day at school now involves lots of planning and everyone around her needs to be trained by specialist nurses to take care of her. It’s a constant worry for us.

Erin is incredible she takes it all in her stride. She is so patient with us when she needs treatment and so understanding when we tell her we can’t do or have certain things because of how it will effect her Diabetes.

JDRF are a registered charity who are researching a cure and new treatments for Type 1. They do an amazing job offering support and raising awareness of the condition. We are doing this 5km walk to try and raise money to help them do that. Erin will be joined by some of her classmates.

Thank you for taking the time to read about our story, we appreciate your support.

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