Gavin Griffiths

Gavin was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was 8 years old, being into sports, he pledged that it would never stop him from doing anything! In 2008, at 17, he wanted to do something to inspire young diabetics that they could do whatever they put their mind to do. He ran 29 miles around the Thanet coast in 3 hours 1 min and raised £1614 for his clinic! In 2009,he challenged himself to run the rocky Isle of Wight coastline and despite torrential storms and suffering hypos, he ran 50 miles in 2 days and organised a gig, raising £1700 for Diabetes Uk. He won their Fundraising Volunteers Achievement Award and was their youngest achiever! In 2010, disappointed that he had to stop at 50 miles the year before, he was determined to complete the full 67 miles of the I.O.W coast, in 3 days. By the last day he was suffering knee and ankle injuries, the pain on his face was heart wrenching, and through sheer mind over matter, he not only finished, but managed to sprint the last 200 metres, raising £1800! Gavin helps run the Diabetes UK Bexley Support Group where young diabetics share advice. A worried family contacted Gavin because their 19 year old, who he knew from school, was very ill, due to not looking after his diabetes. He listened to Gavin, who explained to him how his insulin works and the importance of a good diet and exercise. The young man is, now, well and attends meetings. Gavin is not only an inspiration to young diabetics but to everyone he meets!