Eleven-year-old, Holly Howard was diagnosed with diabetes three years ago after her parents noticed the symptoms whilst on a family holiday.
“Having diabetes has just made life a little bit harder and sometimes I have days when I think it is taking over my life, but those are bad days.” the youngster said.
“I went on a diabetes camp in America and I was inspired by a man called Sebastien Sasseville who came to talk to us.
“He also has type 1 diabetes and has done some amazing challenges to raise money and awareness for charity.”
The schoolgirl has now set herself the challenge to cycle 400km across the country to raise money for Diabetes UK with her father, who also has diabetes.
“I felt inspired and we came up with the crazy idea of the coast to coast bike ride,” Holly added.
“We wanted to do something that would push us and we thought a bike ride would be good.
“I didn’t even have a bike before this but our training has been really progressive.
“We started by just riding around the Downs a few times then to Bath and back.”
Holly has already raised more than £5000 and has been amazed with the support she has received.
“Everyone has been fantastic and we have totally surpassed our original £2500 target.
“I wanted to do this challenge for three main reasons; to raise money, raise awareness and to show people that having diabetes shouldn’t stop you.”
The pair will set off from Weston-Super-Mare on Monday, July 25th at 9:30am and the ride is expected to take them six to seven days to reach their finish point in Margate.
“I am feeling excited but also a bit nervous. It will be hard but I’m most looking forward to spending more time with my dad.”
Support Holly on her ride by clicking here to donate.
