A 21-year-old man is set to run the Caerphilly 10k to raise money for Diabetes UK
Luke Evans, who is from Caerphilly, has chosen the charity because his grandmother, Doreen Evans, has Type-2 Diabetes.
Luke said: “Nan struggles every day with her diabetes. Her condition has got worse over time and led to her developing kidney problems which means she has dialysis three times a week. She has also suffered from blood clots, which led to her losing three toes on her right foot in 2013 and sadly, losing her left leg a year later. She now uses a wheelchair.
“Nan finds life with diabetes tough but she keeps going, and our family are all there for her when she needs help. She always supported me when I was younger and now I want to try and give something back. She is my inspiration.”
Mrs Evans, 74, from Blackwood, was diagnosed about 25 years ago and has to inject herself with insulin twice a day.
The race will take place on Sunday, May 19 and Luke, who is in his final year at university, has had to balance training and working on his dissertation.
Luke told Caerphilly Observer: “I did the 10k last year to raise money for the Stroke Association after my grandfather had a stroke.
“I raised £555 and completed the race in 46 minutes and ten seconds, despite doing no training before.
“This year I’m training to improve my time but I’m prioritising raising funds.”
On Saturday, April 6, Luke raised more than £100 at a charity quiz in the Mason’s Arms pub in Caerphilly.
“I had printed out a sponsorship form so I brought it along and I went around all the tables asking for donations and almost everybody supported which was fantastic.”
In preparation, Luke is training with Caerphilly Runners, as well as walking his dogs and playing football.
He said: “I’m excited for the race. If I improve my time that will be a bonus, but I’m not really nervous.
“I was pleased with my time last year and with more preparation I’m feeling more ready, but I might feel nervous on the day.”
Luke added: “My family are very proud and will support me and come and watch me race.
“Hopefully my nan will be well enough to be there too.”
Joseph Cuff, Fundraising Manager at Diabetes UK Cymru, said, “Life with Type-2 diabetes can be tough, especially when life-changing complications start to develop. The money Luke raises will help us to support the thousands of others living with diabetes across Wales, and their families. We wish him all the best with his training and are sure that Doreen will be incredibly proud of his efforts on the day.”
According to Diabetes UK, There are more than 194,000 people in Wales living with diabetes, of which 90% have Type-2.
To make a donation to Luke’s cause, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/luke-evans21.