Determined Ruth gears up for the Great Manchester Run

A mum from Mossley will be tackling the Great Manchester Run for Diabetes UK.

Ruth McDonald (aged 37) is taking part in the iconic race in support of her eldest daughter, Molly (16), who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at two years of age.

Ruth, a fleet co-ordinator, has always found running difficult, which is why she wanted to take on the challenge.

The mum-of-three explained: “I know that managing diabetes can be really difficult for Molly, it’s a life-long condition − she can’t just have a day off.

"Molly was admitted into hospital last summer, because she developed diabetic ketoacidosis, which then led to kidney failure.

"After that horrible hospital I made a promise I would set myself a challenge. It's a challenge I have to stick to, the same as she does.”

Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the pancreas cannot produce insulin which is needed to carry glucose around the body.

It is treated with daily insulin doses − taken either by injections or via an insulin pump.  

If left undiagnosed or not managed well Type 1 diabetes can result in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) a life-threatening complication that requires urgent medical attention.

The run, set for Sunday, May 20, will see over 30,000 people take to the streets of the undisputed capital of the North.

Ruth, who will be cheered on by her three children on the day, has been training hard for the event but her efforts have been hampered recently by a fractured toe.

She added: “It’s healed well so I’m hoping to get back into training soon.

"I’m not a runner so this is a big challenge for me.

"I know it might be tough but the support of my family will spur me on.”

Both the 10K and half marathon courses take in some of the city’s most iconic sights, including Old Trafford Football Ground and the Imperial War Museum North.

Runners will also pass the famous cobbles of Coronation Street’s new set and Beetham Tower, the 554ft skyscraper near the finish line.

Fiona Menzies, Diabetes UK Fundraising Manager, said: “We’re really grateful to Ruth for taking on this challenge for us.

"The money raised will help fund ground-breaking research, care services and campaigns to change the lives of people with diabetes and their families.”

To sponsor Ruth, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ruthmcdonald1

To find out more about taking part in the Great Manchester Run for Diabetes UK, visit:  www.diabetes.org.uk/Great-Manchester-Run