A SUPERFIT mum is swimming the equivalent of the English Channel to raise vital funds for Diabetes UK.

Eve Comiskey, aged 34, from Prestwich, is taking on the swimming challenge of the year, Swim 22, to raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes following her son’s diagnosis in August last year.

Her son Rory, aged two, was diagnosed with the condition after Eve and husband Kieran had noticed that their son was constantly thirsty.

Eve, a business development manager said: “Rory had an ear infection, so at first we thought it was all related to this, but after his infection had cleared and the symptoms continued we took him to our GP. They picked up on the symptoms straight away and gave him a finger-prick test to measure his blood glucose levels, which were dangerously high.”

Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes include increased thirst, tiredness, weight-loss and going to the toilet more frequently. If left undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes can result in more serious life-threatening complications such as Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

The mum-of-two, who gave birth to her second son Leo just 2 weeks ago, said: “Before Rory was diagnosed we knew nothing about diabetes. We were so grateful that he was diagnosed quickly, that we wanted to help raise awareness of the condition.

“As a busy mum it’s often difficult to find any spare time, but Swim 22 seemed the perfect way to do this.

“I’ve been swimming since I was little, it’s always been a hobby of mine.

“It’s still going to be a challenge, having just given birth I haven’t found time to train, but the support of family and friends will definitely make it easier.” Eve’s friend Maxine, aged 38, will also be taking on Swim22 in May to support her efforts in raising awareness.

Maxine, from Horwich, added: “Eve has always been there for me when I needed her and her determination inspired me to take on the Swim22 challenge and help raise awareness of diabetes and support people living with the condition.” Eve’s employer Nuffield Health have also offered the duo free access to the pool at their Bolton gym in support of their efforts.

Vickie Butcher, Diabetes UK North West Regional Fundraiser, said: “We are delighted that Eve and Maxine are making a splash for Diabetes UK.

The lengths that they are going to will bring us closer to our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm.

“Swim22 is perfect if you want to challenge yourself to get fitter at your own pace and in your own time. You can swim in your local pool alone or, better still, get your family, friends and colleagues involved. You can even split the 22 miles between a team to make it easier for everyone. Our dedicated team will be on hand to support you from start to finish.”

To sponsor Eve visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/evemma83To sign up for Swim22, go to www.diabetes.org.uk/swim22. There is no registration fee and no minimum sponsorship.