A plaque has been presented to Whitchurch High School in Cardiff in memory of a pupil who passed away due to late diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes.
Peter Baldwin was just 13 years old when he passed away in January 2015.
Despite showing typical symptoms of Type 1 diabetes; extreme fatigue, weight loss, and frequently needing the toilet, Peter was unfortunately not diagnosed until he was already seriously ill with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). As a result, Peter sadly passed away just days later.
Schoolmate support
Since then, Peter’s parents Beth and Stuart Baldwin and sister Lia, 11, have raised over £70,000 for Diabetes UK and campaigned tirelessly to increase awareness of the early symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, helping launch our Know Type 1 campaign in June last year.
Staff and classmates at Peter’s school have supported the Baldwin family’s fundraising in a variety of ways, from bake sales to film screenings, t-shirt sales and an all-lower-school sponsored run.
Beth, Lia and our Fundraising Manager Joseph Cuff presented the plaque to Whitchurch High’s head teacher Huw Jones-Williams and some of Peter’s classmates in recognition of the school’s ongoing support.
A legacy for Peter
Head teacher Huw Jones Williams said: “Peter was a happy and much-valued member of our school community and our memories of him shine as bright as ever. We have been privileged to support Beth, Stuart and Lia and Diabetes UK Cymru’s Know Type 1 campaign.
“Our acceptance of this plaque is a testament to the Baldwin family and all that they do to provide a fitting legacy for Peter.”
Peter’s mother Beth Baldwin said: “Peter loved his friends and school and as a family we are really moved by the love and support shown by the whole community at Whitchurch High School. They have taken Peter to heart in all they do and have helped us to raise a huge amount of money and awareness.
“His friends mark his birthday every year and his form raised money to purchase a bench for the school field too. They have supported us throughout and done Peter very proud.”
The signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes can develop very quickly. Look out for the 4Ts: needing the toilet, feeling thirsty, feeling tired and getting thinner. If you spot any of these, visit your doctor immediately for a finger prick test.
For more information, go to our Know Type 1 campaign page.
