THE family of a York teenager who died after developing diabetes have decided to take part in the Great North Run to help other victims of the illness.

Sam Sinclair, from the Tadcaster Road area, died in November, aged 19, after Type 1 diabetes complications developed.

Now her mum, Tania, and twin brother Scott have started training for the Bupa Great North Run on September 19 to raise funds for Diabetes UK.

Five other family members are also getting involved. Sam’s aunt, Shiree Ciani, 54, uncle John Soanes, 42, and cousin Kirsty Soanes, 27, will join Tania and Scott in the 13-mile slog, while younger cousins Courtney, 16 and Kayley Soanes, 14, will take part in the Junior Run.

The family are also hoping to save the lives of other young people by raising awareness of Type 1 diabetes and the condition’s symptoms.

Lisa Stafford, Diabetes UK northern and yorkshire regional fundraising officer, said the united determination of Tania and her family was “inspirational”.

She said: “Together, the family hope to raise about £2,500 for Diabetes UK which will help us help the 30,000 or so people with diabetes in York and North Yorkshire.”

Tania said: “Sam’s death came as such a shock – she was a healthy vibrant young woman with her whole life ahead of her.

“She dreamt of being a police officer, and shortly before she died had been for an interview for a community support officer. Just a fortnight after her tragic death, I found out she had been successful in her application.”

A “Samantha Sinclair Tribute Fund” has been set up by the family; donations can be made by contacting the Diabetes UK supporter development team on 020 7424 1849.

Diabetes UK’s care advisor Libby Dowling said that in Type 1 diabetes, the signs and symptoms developed quickly, usually over a few weeks and included increased thirst, urinating all the time – especially at night – extreme tiredness, weight loss and blurred vision.

She said: “If anyone has any of these symptoms they should seek medical help immediately as early diagnosis is crucial in reducing the risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be fatal.”


Take part in Great North Run

DIABETES UK today urged anyone moved and inspired by Sam’s story to join the fight against the illness to apply for one of the limited Bupa Great North Run charity places.

“Running for us means we can continue to fund vital research and improve the lives of people with diabetes across the Northern and Yorkshire region,” said Lisa Stafford.

Anyone interested should phone Lisa on 01325 488 606 or email lisa.stafford@diabetes.org.uk for further information. For more information on the run, visit diabetes.org.uk/gnr