A devoted local dad has completed the challenging Brighton Marathon to raise an incredible £1,227 for the Paediatric Diabetes Service.
Tom Hughes took on the running event on April 12, to support a team that holds a very special place in his heart. His young daughter, Scarlett, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes just two days after her second birthday.
Speaking about the diagnosis, Tom said: “It was a terrifying time, we were told to prepare for the worst. But in true Scarlett fashion, she defied every expectation. She came through fighting, and today she’s doing incredibly well.
“We owe so much of Scarlett’s recovery and ongoing wellbeing to the incredible team at the Carmarthen Paediatric Diabetes Centre. Their support didn’t stop after diagnosis — they’ve been with us every step of the way.
“From day-to-day care to emotional support and even organising annual play days so kids living with Type 1 can laugh, connect, and just feel like kids again. These events and this level of care mean the world to families like mine. But none of it is free — the centre operates on a tight budget, and every extra smile they bring takes extra support.
“That’s why I chose to raise funds for the service. To give back. To say thank you. And to help them bring more joy, care, and hope to families facing the same journey we did. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who donated.”
The community has rallied around the family to celebrate both Tom's athletic achievement and the vital funds raised.
Katie Hancock, from the charity, said: “A huge thanks to Tom for taking on the Brighton Marathon to support a service so close to his heart. His efforts and generosity will have a real impact on the team, and we’re incredibly grateful for his support.
“The generous charitable donations we receive don’t replace NHS funding. Instead, they are used to provide items and activities above and beyond core NHS expenditure, such as more welcoming surroundings for patients, families and staff, and research into, and the development of, treatments.”
The extra funds will help bring more joy and comfort to local children living with the condition.
For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, you can visit their website.
