A diabetes Specialist Podiatrist from Newport is running the London Marathon in support of Diabetes UK Cymru after being inspired by her patients.
Helen Newton, 39, works for Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. She was inspired to lace up her trainers after seeing how devastating the complications of diabetes can be, and how resilient her patients are when it comes to managing their condition.
Helen said: “I mainly deal with patients who are living with diabetes. I also have a close family connection to the condition. My father and brother both have Type 2 diabetes, and my close friend’s son was recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Stepping up the training
“I used to take part in cross-country events in school but over the years running took a back seat. I started running again two years ago through the Newport parkrun ‘Couch to 5k’ programme, and joined the Lliswerry Runners in May last year. Since November I’ve really stepped up my training and now run four days a week.
“I ran the Pontypool 10k, Cardiff Bay 10k and the Cardiff Half Marathon in 2017, but this will be my biggest challenge so far.”
Fundraising auction
To boost her fundraising , Helen is hosting a fundraising evening at the Rogerstone and Bassaleg Social Club on Friday 23 February. It will include music from Chepstow Big Band Swingcopation, a buffet and a fundraising auction!
Prizes up for grabs include a signed Newport Gwent Dragons rugby shirt, tickets to the musical Wicked, a Microlite flight experience and a Newport Live gym membership. Tickets are still available at £15 for adults and £5 for children.
Helen says: “Diabetes UK is doing fantastic research into diabetes care and treatment and I am so excited to be raising funds for the charity. I’m nervous about the marathon but the support of my fellow runners has given me the confidence I need. I’m amazed at the generosity of the prize donations for the auction, people really have gone above and beyond to support a brilliant cause. It’s going to be a wonderful evening of music, fundraising and fun!”
To sponsor Helen, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/helen-newton5.
For tickets to the fundraising event on 23 February, contact Helen on 01633 662322 or 07825 988459.
