Kim Armstrong is taking on the swimming challenge of the year, Swim 22, between 22 February and 22 May because her daughter, Joanne, was recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Kim, who is a nurse, said: “When my daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes it was a real shock, it came out of the blue. She is 27 years old and learning to live with the condition now but I know from my experience as a nurse, and now of a mum of someone living with diabetes, it can take some getting used to.
“I love a challenge and I love to fundraise so I wanted to do Swim 22 for my daughter as well as myself. I haven’t swam in a long time so this is the perfect motivation for me to get up every day and do something that will benefit my health as well. I hope by doing Swim 22 I can help raise awareness about diabetes and raise funds so that Diabetes UK can keep helping people.”
Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. There are an estimated 4.7 million people living with diabetes in the UK. If not managed well, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke. There is currently no known cure for any type of diabetes.
Naomi Breen, Diabetes UK Northern Ireland Fundraising Manager, said:
“We are delighted that Kim 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. You can even split the 22 miles between a team to make it easier for everyone. Our dedicated team will be on hand to support you from start to finish.”
There is no registration fee and no minimum sponsorship.
