James (pictured at this age) was 11 years old when he was rushed to RUH Bath and diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. He felt overwhelmed and scared and, in that moment, his life changed forever.
“At the time, I didn’t really understand what was wrong with me, I just knew something wasn’t right and everything felt very sudden,” explains James. “I was tired, scared, confused, and suddenly I was in a hospital bed with lots of unfamiliar faces around me. I remember doctors and nurses moving quickly, taking blood, putting me on a drip, and speaking calmly but seriously.”
During his first frightening hospital stay, James credits the kindness and patience of the hospital staff for making him feel safe and supported. He remembers doctors and nurses taking the time to explain what was happening in a way he could understand, and speaking directly to him, not just to his parents. “That made a huge difference.” This simple act of being included and reassured made James feel safe and cared for.
“Being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 11 was overwhelming, but the care, kindness, and reassurance I received from the staff made a lasting difference. Fundraising for RUHX feels like a way to give something back to the hospital that helped me feel safe, supported, and not alone when my life changed.”
James is running in the Bath Half this year to show his gratitude for the doctors, nurses and specialists who have been by his side throughout the years. And is pictured below, in training, with his glucose monitor and blood sugar sensor visible – showing that having type 1 Diabetes certainly won’t stop him enjoying the active life that he loves!
You can donate to support James and RUHX here
