A woman from Frome has walked a million steps to raise money for charity and to keep her diabetes under control.
Diabetes UK’s One Million Step Challenge took place between 1st July and 30th September, and invited people to push themselves out of their comfort zone by taking one million steps over three months and getting sponsored for every stride.
It took Ruth Angel at least 10,000 steps a day to reach her million. But in spite of holidays and other days when she was travelling by car or train, she still managed to finish before the deadline. She raised £160 for Diabetes UK at the same time.
The retired French teacher said, “I usually try to walk 10,000 steps a day for my health, so I thought the challenge would be relatively straightforward. But it was tougher than I had expected. Some days I found myself doing 19,000 steps. I relied on my Pilates teachers, and a massage therapist to keep my hips and knees working, but the challenge has definitely helped with my weight control. On top of that, I have benefitted from research as someone with diabetes, and wanted to give something back.”
Ruth was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 1996. Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. There are an estimated 4.6 million people living with diabetes in the UK. Around 90 per cent have Type 2 diabetes, which can sometimes be treated with a healthy diet and physical activity, as well as medication. But if not managed well, diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including blindness, lower limb amputation, kidney failure and stroke.
Phaedra Perry, Diabetes UK south west regional head said, “We’re really grateful to Ruth Angel for supporting our work to fund ground-breaking research, care services and campaigns that can change the lives of those living with diabetes.
“The annual One Million Step Challenge is perfect if you want to take steps towards a healthier you. You can take it on alone, or get your family, friends and colleagues involved too. You can even split the million steps between a team to make it easier. Whichever way our fabulous fundraisers have chosen to take part this year, the money they have raised is vital in the fight against diabetes.”
To sponsor Ruth Angel, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ruth-Angel
