A WOMAN who has suffered from diabetes for half a century will celebrate her life and good health by taking part in a ten mile walk for charity.

Lis Warren, from Pinner, has read countless copies of Diabetes UK magazine Balance over the years after she was diagnosed with Type 1 50 years ago.

Lacing up her trainers, she now plans to take part in the ten mile London Bridges Challenge on Sunday, October 11 to help raise money for the charity that has given her advice and support for half a century.

She said: “I've never raised money for a charity before and I’m doing it this year as part of my 50 years with Type 1 diabetes 'Diaversity'.

“I want to make up for the decades when I received information from Diabetes UK, but gave little back.

“But I'm also doing it to celebrate my good fortune and health, to have some fun and to meet hundreds of others who like me, have spent a lifetime testing their blood and injecting multiple times each day to stay alive and well.

“I want to ensure that the information I’ve received via Diabetes UK’s Balance magazine for five decades continues to reach those who need support and education to self-manage their diabetes well.”

Already, Mrs Warren has received more than £700 in donations – well over her £500 target - thanks to the support of family, friends and the Diabetes Online Community.

Claire Lubbock, Diabetes UK London Fundraiser, said: “Lis is helping us to raise vital funds which will help people living with diabetes.

“The London Bridges Challenge is a great way to explore the city and a fun day out for all the family.”

To sponsor the ten mile walk, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/Lis-Warren1