An Irish man with type 1 diabetes is embarking on an epic kitesurfing challenge from France to Ireland in under 16 hours this weekend.
Eoghan Quinn, from Waterford, has set this target which is faster than the ferry which travels from Cherbourg to Rosslare.
Eoghan is raising diabetes awareness and also fundraising for Diabetes Ireland. He says that a large part of his challenge is to show people that anything is possible with type 1 diabetes.
Speaking to the Waterford Live newspaper, the 31-year-old said: “Having had type 1 diabetes from the age of four, it was preconceived by my healthcare professionals that there would be barriers obstructing my potential due to my condition. I wanted to, and have since, broken down the barriers through taking on international sole challenges.
“One of the biggest barriers that exists with diabetes among many people is the mental one, as there seems to be a perception that diabetes is a weakness or a chink in one’s armour. What I’m aiming to achieve here is highlight, with the right treatment anything is possible.”
Over the course of the 275-mile challenge, he will have support from the sporting, tourism and pharmaceutical sectors as he manages his blood glucose levels and insulin dosing on the quest.
This is not the first time Eoghan has taken part in tough physical challenges to raise awareness of his condition. He once cycled 6,000km to Gaza in 41 days and biked from Melbourne in Sydney in four days covering 1,000km.
You can donate to Eoghan’s fundraiser here.
