Diabetes diagnosis leads to run

Monday 18th June 2012

A 30-year-old woman is to run the Bupa Great North Run for Diabetes UK just months after learning she had the disease.

Benny Bonsu, sports policy and operations co-ordinator for the London Olympics, will join thousands of runners for the race through Newcastle on September 16.

Benny, from London, has been using running to keep fit since her diagnosis in March, in an effort to minimise the affects of the disease. The Great North Run will be her first half marathon.

She said: "My mother has Type 2 diabetes, so I knew I had an increased risk of developing the condition. Although I knew I had all the symptoms, (I) had been feeling weak, tired and thirsty, as well as urinating a lot, it was still hard to hear I had Type 2 diabetes.

"For me, running is a fantastic way to keep fit, as well as helping to maintain my blood sugar levels.

"Through my mother's experience of diabetes, I know first hand how serious the condition can be. I want to try to raise awareness of the condition and ensure that people take all the symptoms seriously."

Diabetes UK is the nominated charity partner for the Bupa Great Run Series from 2012. Money raised by Benny and other runners will help the charity to deliver diabetes awareness roadshows.

Ann Rowe, Diabetes UK Northern and Yorkshire fundraising manager, said: "The funds Benny raises will go a long way in helping us continue to support the 128,000 people diagnosed with diabetes in the North East, and help us find the estimated 40,000 people in the area who are unaware they have Type 2 diabetes."

To sponsor Benny visit http://www.justgiving.com/benny-bonsu.

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