Thursday 25th April – 12.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.
A paramedic from West Midlands Ambulance Service has completed the first half of his double marathon challenge in a bid to raise funds for Diabetes UK.
Matt Turvey, who is based at Stoke Ambulance Station, completed the London Marathon on Sunday in 5 hours and 36 minutes and is now gearing up for his second marathon, which will take place in Manchester this Sunday, just one week later!
Matt decided to raise money for diabetes UK on discovering a former colleague’s son, Harry, had been diagnosed with type one diabetes.
Matt said: “Harry, who is only five years of age, is in the same class as my daughter at St. Luke’s Primary School in Endon.
“For Harry, having type one diabetes means his immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin. Insulin helps our bodies use glucose which gives us energy. Unfortunately at present the cause of this condition is unknown and as yet there is still no cure. This means that Harry is now insulin dependent for the rest of his life.
“Harry can have six or more insulin injections and finger pricks, to check his glucose level, each day. Even though Harry is subjected to such invasive procedures he does not cry or moan he simply accepts that this is a part of his life and continues to live it to the full. He is truly an inspiration and I am proud to be supporting such a worthwhile charity.”
As a paramedic, Matt is often called to emergencies that are diabetic related and he repeatedly sees the effects that the condition can have on patients.
Matt, who also held a fundraising entertainment evening in February, has so far managed to raise a massive £1,283 towards his target of £2,000.
If you would like to support Matt in his challenge and help raise funds to allow Diabetes UK continue with their research and provide help to children like Harry please visit his just giving page via www.justgiving.com/MrTurvey.
Ends
Picture 1: Matt Turvey
Picture 2: Matt running past Big Ben at mile 25 of the London Marathon
Picture 3: Matt pictured with his daughter Molly following the event.