A COLEFORD woman who received a ‘life-changing’ diagnosis last earlier this year will run in the Cardiff half-marathon on October 8.

Rebecca Purvis, 24, is hoping to raise £1,000 for Diabetes UK, by tackling her first half-marathon since being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in January, after feeling unwell for several months. She is now taking insulin, which all those with Type 1 diabetes need to administer in order to stay alive.

Becca said: “Having a diagnosis was life-changing. It was such a relief to know why I was feeling so ill. Now that my blood glucose levels are under control, I feel 100 times better. In fact, the reason I’m running the Cardiff Half is to prove that my diabetes does not control me. Living with diabetes does not have to affect the way you choose to live your life.

“I also feel it’s very important to support Diabetes UK who are carrying out research and providing help and support to people with diabetes.”

Becca, who works in the office at Western Power Distribution, will be running the Cardiff Half Marathon with her uncle.

Phaedra Perry, Diabetes UK south west regional head, said: “Receiving a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes can be a shock, but Becca has met the challenge head-on.

To find out more about Type 1 diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org.uk