Larissa - supporting youth with Type 1 Diabetes

I want to fundraise to support Diabetes NZ Auckland Youth, for an event for teenagers, and if possible another for children, that live with Type 1 Diabetes in Auckland.

I was diagnosed when I was 2.5 years old. It was, and still is hard, and I know it is for others like me too. The best support, motivation and feeling 'normal' is at diabetes events and camps! It's tough fundraising right now, but I want to work hard to support them as I know how important these are. Parents find support too.

I will be doing the Mackenzie Half Marathon (Fairlie) in July, the North Shore Half in September, and hopefully the Auckland Half and/or Kerikeri Half in November. It's great fitness for football too.

I did my first half marathon (21.1km) when I was 13. It is a lot of extra calculating and preparing my carbohydrates for the 3-4hours running/walking. I still get hypos/low blood sugars I have to work through. I have to eat/drink 20+grams carbs every 15-20mins the whole time, plus be fully 'carb-loaded' in the previous days. During the event I reduce or stop my insulin via my pump. After the event I have to monitor closely too.

I'm excited for the off-road, river crossing, with snowy mountains in Mackenzie, as we will wear tartin. So, please, if you can, donate to help bring teens and kids with T1D together to create special friendships and feel less alone.