An officer worker is swimming the equivalent of the English Channel to raise vital funds for Diabetes UK.
Helen Hill, 43, is taking on the swimming challenge of the year, Swim22, between 22 February and 22 May. She was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in February 2019 and has transformed her health over the year by losing more than 11 stone in weight and putting her condition into remission.
Helen (pictured) had been feeling unwell a few months before her diagnosis, but was very shocked when she was told she had type 2 diabetes and realised she needed to take action to change her life.
“I have an under active thyroid and to be honest I have been struggling to lose weight my entire life. But the type 2 diabetes diagnosis was a real lightbulb moment for me. The medication I was put on made me feel unwell, so after consulting my doctor I went on a ketogenic diet combined with intermittent fasting.
“It was the change I needed, I shed lots of weight and put my condition into remission. I carried on with the diet and managed to lose 11 stone in one year.
“I feel so much better and even though I still have a little more weight to go, the transformation has been dramatic. A year ago I was talking about needing bariatric surgery and worrying about diabetes-related complications, but now I’m about to embark on this amazing challenge.
“This is why Swim22 came at a perfect time for me. I want to raise money for Diabetes UK, but also raise awareness and understanding of this condition.”
Siobhan Clifford, Diabetes UK West Midlands Fundraiser, said: “We are delighted that Helen is making a splash for Diabetes UK. The lengths that she is going to will bring us closer to our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm.
“Swim22 is perfect if you want to challenge yourself to get fitter at your own pace and in your own time. You can swim in your local pool alone or, better still, get your family, friends and colleagues involved. Our dedicated team will be on hand to support you from start to finish.”
To sponsor Helen please visit www.swim22.diabetes.org.uk/pages/hilly
