Two brothers from the Doon Valley are taking on an incredible physical challenge this month in order to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes – a condition they have both struggled with throughout their lives.
Ben Whitelaw, 20, and Bryce Gormanley, 10, have committed to doing 100 sit-ups every day in August to raise funds for JDRF UK, a type 1 diabetes charity which funds world-class medical research to cure, prevent and treat type 1 diabetes.
The pair were inspired to take on the stomach-crunching task for all the other kids who have to live with the condition and to put a positive spin on what has been a tough experience for them both.
Mum Leanne will also be joining in on the, er, fun as she feels it is vital that people know the signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes.
She said: “100 sit ups a day for a whole month is mental but nothing compared to the pain these kids go through every single day, and their family too. I’ve always donated to the charity and this challenge is perfect to do from home. We’ll be videoing it every single day so people can see the trials and tribulations.
“My oldest son was 12 when he was diagnosed. For about six months in that time, I thought he had anorexia. I didn’t pick up on the signs of diabetes. He was losing weight, drinking all the time, going to the toilet all the time. It never crossed my mind.
“There are the four T’s of diabetes - toilet, thirsty, tired and thinner along with another six symptoms. When he was diagnosed, it was a real shock because my niece is diabetic as well but we never had diabetes in the family before that.
“When Ben was diagnosed, he really struggled with his illness. He’s only just accepted it now. He almost died twice. It’s horrific because it’s a mentally straining illness for a child and when families don’t know anything about it, it’s a scary thing.”
She continued: “My second child is only four years diagnosed but we were better equipped to cope with it, although every child has a different experience. It’s a really hard illness to look after because it’s 24/7. You need to check blood sugars through the night, if they hypo you’re terrified they’re going to end up in a coma. It’s a lot for a child to take on.
“This challenge should keep them active and mentally focused. You’ve got to keep upbeat about it.”
To support the boys and keep up to date with their challenge, click here.
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