Valerie MacKenzie

My Story

Welcome to my Diabetes UK Wellness Walk fundraising page!

I'm walking alongside and in solidarity with my amazing wife, Ruth. She has had Type 1 diabetes for 50 years.

When I met Ruth 27 years ago, I knew a little bit about diabetes. However, I soon realised that I knew very little indeed. I had no idea how much effort, emotional as well as practical, it takes to manage diabetes well. Not just occasionally but every single day. I had no idea about the range and impact of diabetic complications.

Ruth is an inspiration to me and the most resilient person I know. No matter what challenges she faces, she keeps going and does so with positivity and style. I call myself a 'sympathetic diabetic', which I am. However, my body regulates my blood sugars and seeing the challenges that Ruth can face, I never take it for granted. Ruth could do the same things two days running and her blood sugars would still be different. She doesn't have the luxury of letting her body alone deal with it.

Despite the challenges, the advances in diabetic management have been immense. This greatly assists everyday life and with reducing the risk of further complications. There is also far more support and information which is empowering, as well as reducing stigma and misunderstanding. None of this would be possible without the fantastic work of Diabetes UK. They fund vital research which improves quality of life, they advocate for people with diabetes, and are a trusted source of information and support.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and I would really appreciate any donation you feel able to make.

Please help me reach my goal

Raised

£224 + £42.85 GiftAid

My Goal

£300

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