My Story

Why Am I Running the Marathon in April 2025 and Fundraising for Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation ?

Why Indeed ?!

It all started with my little brother Simon, being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 1975 at the age of 9.   As a family we knew nothing about Diabetes and there was very little information available in the mid-70's.

Whilst Insulin was available at that time as a family we helped Simon to accept his condition and we educated ourselves in the dietary and exercise requirements to support our brother in managing his medication and the changes that were needed to be made to keep Simon safe and encourage him to talk about his condition.  At the time we didnt know what Simon's life expectancy would be.

Simon is now 58 years old and very fit and healthy, runs marathons himself and I am inspired by Simon - and running the London Marathon 2025 to raise money for the Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation, towards their ultimate goal to discover a cure.

Over the years other family member and friends have also been diagnosed with Diabetes, Dave my Father In Law, and my best mate (end Best Man), Ian Hunter, all relying on the fantastic work done by the Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation.

Thank you for reading and thank you for donating.

John Gillibrand (Marathon Man !)