Little Thetford dad leading the fight against diabetes

Paul, 40, is a self-employed plumber who lives with type 1 diabetes as does his father and son, Archie, who is six years old. The Sycamores also have two other children, Sienna and Ruby.

Paul Sycamore and wife Melissa. (Image: SCYAMORE FAMILY)

He said: “When I was first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 13, I found it hard and didn’t want to do injections. Now, I am on an insulin pump and Dexcom on a closed loop. It helps a lot with the day-to-day, especially with controlling levels while running."

Paul’s father has lived with diabetes since 1970 and is now suffering with the complications of the disease.

“My dad is suffering a lot now unfortunately with dialysis and other complications because of the diabetes.

"I am gutted that my son also has it. He was four years old when diagnosed and I am so proud of him for putting up with it.

"After about three months of Archie being diagnosed, he and I went to get our hair cut. He was finished before me, and the hairdresser gave him a sweet lollypop. He sat down and waited for me before he started eating it because he had learned that he needed insulin. I couldn’t have been prouder of him.”

That is why Paul decided to start fundraising through marathons, such as running the London marathon twice and completing the 50k challenge this year:

“I want to help Diabetes UK so that hopefully one day there is a cure for diabetes and also to prove to my son that it shouldn’t hold you back.

"I enjoy keeping fit for good health and it helps me mentally. My wife, Melissa, is amazing supporting me with my running and training as well as helping me and Archie control our blood sugars."

All the family is involved in fundraising and Paul’s daughters have hosted a bake sale in their driveway and raised £350.

Sienna and Ruby held a bake sale to raise funds. (Image: SCYAMORE FAMILY)