Mark Morrelle, 44, has lived with Type 1 diabetes for more than 30 years, but has never let it get in the way of an active lifestyle.
Next month he takes on his biggest challenge yet: the iconic New York City Marathon on Sunday, 3 November.
Type 1 team
Mark, 44, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 1982, but has never let it stop him. He has run the London Marathon twice, as well as completing a number of 10K and half marathon races.
Earlier this year, he was part of Diabetes UK Cymru’s team of Type 1 runners to complete the Swansea Half Marathon, to show others with the condition that it should not hold them back.
“More determined than ever”
Mark said, “I have never let my diabetes stop me from doing anything or let it get in my way. I’m really used to managing my condition, especially when I’m running, and know what works for me.
“I met some really lovely people at the Swansea Half and it was great to be able to talk about the challenges of running with Type 1, as well as the events we’ve got coming up next.
“While a marathon is always an enormous challenge, I feel more determined than ever to show others that Type 1 diabetes should not stop you from achieving amazing things. It will be a real honour to run for Diabetes UK Cymru in New York.”
Mark has been training hard for the marathon. He ran the Bangor Half Marathon earlier this month, and his last race before flying out to the Big Apple will be the Flintshire 10K later in October.
Good luck, Mark! Thank you so much for representing #TeamDUK.
Has Mark inspired you to lace up your trainers to support Diabetes UK? Find out about our upcoming running events.
