Schoolboy completes epic swim challenge for JDRF

A 10-year-old boy with type 1 diabetes has taken the plunge and swum 2.1 miles, raising more than £2,000 for his efforts.
Thomas Skues, 10, from Dover, took part in the epic Make A Splash challenge at his local swimming baths along with six adults and 33 other children.
The money raised will be donated to the type 1 diabetes charity JDRF, which supports research into the condition.
Thomas said: “I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was five years old, so have been living with the condition for half of my life. I really enjoyed the sponsored swim, and I’m really proud I’ve raised so much money to help find a cure for type 1 diabetes.”
His mum Sarah Skues, added: “At first I couldn’t get my head around Thomas being diabetic. But he’s a swimmer and he saw Make a Splash as an opportunity to do something and raise money.”
Exercising with type 1 diabetes is highly encouraged. Although striking the balance between food and insulin can be challenging, regular activity improves insulin sensitivity. If you can exercise several times per week, this will help to prevent blood sugar levels climbing too high. It is advisable to check your blood sugar levels before, during and after exercise.
Thomas has successfully managed his condition around his swimming as he has a pre-swim and post-swim breakfast.
Rebecca Tomlinso, JDRF’s senior challenge and sports fundraising manager, said “It’s amazing to hear about Thomas’ sponsored swim event, and I would like to say a huge thank you to all his friends and family for taking part and fundraising for JDRF.
“Our Make A Splash sponsored swim events are taking place all over the UK to help fund world-class research into type 1 diabetes so that we can find a cure.”
All ages and abilities can take part in Make A Splash, which runs for 12 weeks until April. Participants can choose how far they swim with distances varying from one miles to 21 miles. It is free to sign up and swimmers can take part anywhere from their local leisure centre to a pool on holiday.