Fitness instructor with type 2 diabetes nominated for award for helping others

A 53-year-old man with type 2 diabetes has been nominated for an award for helping others with the condition.
Mavrick Bailey, from Rushcliffe, Nottingham, was earning a &pound100,000 salary two decades ago when he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. But after losing most of his eyesight, he was told he could no longer drive and had to give up his job.
Mr Bailey told the Nottingham Post: “I was earning over &pound100,000 a year and I’d just bought a new BMW but that day changed my life. I went from never having any time to having all the time in the world. It was a crushing blow.”
He used his newfound free time to go back to college, where he learnt to become a fitness instructor. Four years ago, Mr Bailey joined Fit 4 Life, a company that offers fitness classes to people with type 2 diabetes.
He has since been nominated for a Recognising Rushcliffe Award, which aims to celebrate people who have helped inspire the community.
Mr Bailey admitted being “absolutely floored” following his nomination in the Rushcliffe Hero Award category. He said: “I did not expect anything. I live a very simple life and just love making people happy. That’s all the credit I look for.
“I was forced into this new lifestyle but it has made me a better person. I may not have as much money but I’m much happier.”
Mr Bailey was nominated for the award by his colleague Matt Parr, who is also a fitness instructor. Mr Parr said: “Mavrick is a true inspiration and his story illustrates how a diabetes diagnosis does not need to be the end of someone’s life but it could be the beginning of a much healthier and improved lifestyle.”