A woman from Sychdyn in Flintshire is running the Virgin Money London Marathon to raise funds for Diabetes UK in memory of her aunt and cousin.
The London Marathon will see dozens of Team Diabetes UK runners take to the streets to run the iconic 26.2 mile course on 23 April 2017.
Nina Ruddle, 39, is running the marathon to raise awareness of diabetes after watching close relatives cope with the condition from an early age.
"I' want to let my kids see that you can do anything if you put your mind to it"
Nina said: “I’m taking on this challenge in memory my Auntie Val and cousin Paul, who both had Type 1 diabetes and both passed away from diabetes related illnesses. I am running the marathon before I turn 40 because they never got the chance to turn 40 and I want to grasp every opportunity. This is why I want to challenge myself and let my kids see you can do anything if you put your mind to it.
“After seeing how my Auntie and cousin managed their diabetes and how it impacted their lives, I also want to raise money to help anyone with this condition and support the work of Diabetes UK.”
In preparation Nina has set herself a number of challenges including completing a triathlon and training by running up to 48 miles in a week.
She added: “Training is going well. It has been very tough through winter in the wind, cold, rain, sleet and dark but I have a wonderful group of running friends who are all training for one thing or another so we run once or twice in the week and then do long runs together at the weekend. The girls have kept me motivated and entertained on the long runs.”
As well as keeping up with her training schedule Nina has been busy raising funds for Diabetes UK and her marathon run by doing cake sales, raffles and a local band night.
"I'm sure Nina's Auntie and cousin would be very proud"
Diabetes UK Cymru’s Fundraising Manager Joseph Cuff said: “The London Marathon is an amazing event and we’re so grateful to have Nina taking part to raise funds and vital awareness of Type 1 diabetes. Nina’s experience of the condition just goes to show how serious it can be and how important it is that people have the right care and support. I’m sure her Auntie and cousin would be very proud of her taking on such a big challenge.
“Every penny raised will help us to support the 3.5 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK so please give generously to back and support Nina in her amazing effort.”
To sponsor Nina visit herJustGiving page.
To find out more information about signing up to futurefundraising eventsor call 0345 123 2399.
