Theresa's story
Running 5km every day to support diabetes care in the Highlands.
In November 2025, Theresa set herself a huge challenge: to run 5km every day throughout the month to raise awareness of diabetes and to support her local Highland Diabetes Centre. Her original target was £500, but thanks to the generosity of friends, family and supporters, she raised an incredible £1,005.
For Theresa, this challenge was deeply personal. She has lived with Type 1 diabetes for more than 14 years, and the support she has received from the Highland Diabetes Centre has played a crucial role in helping her lead as normal and active a life as possible.
“I am a Type 1 Diabetic,” she explains. “I manage my diabetes through various methods, the main one being diabetes technology. Unfortunately, not every diabetic has access to diabetes tech, which often comes down to funding.”
She knows first hand the daily demands of managing blood glucose levels, insulin, diet and activity. “I am also an Adult Nurse and see first hand the effects of poor diabetes management. I want to raise some funds to allow a person or people to experience the same technology that I have to be able to live a better quality of life.” she says.
“No particular lifestyle causes type 1 diabetes and it is a serious and relentless condition. Many aspects are required to manage it well and diabetes technology can help, there just needs to be more funding available and equality across the whole of Scotland.”
Theresa chose to support NHS Highland because she wanted her efforts to have a direct impact on people living locally. “I could have raised money for other charities in Scotland but it maybe wouldn’t have had a direct impact on an individual or individuals in the Highlands.”
Her determination and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Dr MacFarlane, Consultant at the Highland Diabetes Centre, shared his admiration:
“It was fantastic to hear about Theresa's tremendous achievement. She is an inspiration to others, showing how living with type 1 diabetes should not hold you back. The department extends our sincere gratitude for her fundraising efforts and commitment.”
When asked what she would say to others thinking about fundraising, Theresa encourages people to consider supporting the official NHS Highland charity. “Raising money for NHS Highland means people within the Highlands benefit the most.”
Throughout every kilometre, in all types of Highland weather, Theresa ran with purpose. Her efforts will help others access the technology that can transform life with Type 1 diabetes and raise vital awareness of this condition.
