A Dungannon woman and her running partner are running two marathons for Diabetes UK and HUGS (Spina Bifida and hydrocephalus) and have organised a special Texas Hold’em poker night on Friday 5 April at the Tullysaran Community Centre.
Rebecca Irwin and Vincent Conlon are taking on the Belfast City Marathon and the Dublin Marathon within nine months to help raise awareness about diabetes. Rebecca’s father and grandfather both have Type 1 diabetes so it’s a cause close to her heart.
Rebecca said, ‘I have grown up in a family with diabetes and know the impact it has not just on the person living with the condition, but also on those around them. I am taking on this double marathon challenge to raise awareness about this serious condition and help Diabetes UK Northern Ireland to support families.’
People with Type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin. No one knows exactly what causes it, but it’s not to do with being overweight and it isn’t currently preventable. It is treated by daily insulin doses – taken either by injections or via an insulin pump. It is also recommended to follow a healthy diet and take regular physical activity.
If not managed well it can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke. With the right treatment, knowledge and support people living with diabetes can lead a long, full and healthy life.
Come along to the Tullysaran Community Centre in Armagh on Friday 5 April at 7.30pm for an entertaining night in aid of Diabetes UK Northern Ireland. Entry is £20 and light food will be available. For more information please contact fundraising@diabetes.org.uk.
