A FATHER-OF-THREE from Ilminster is preparing for a cycle ride for Diabetes UK three months after his eldest son was diagnosed with the condition.

Matt Grice arranged the 100-mile ride after his seven-year- old son Henry was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

Matt, 34, an air engineer officer in the Royal Navy, said: “Initially we put the noticeable weight loss, tiredness and thirst down to Henry growing and doing taekwondo five times a week.

“It was only when we caught him drinking direct from the tap excessively that my wife started to think about diabetes.

“Following his diagnosis, we had seven days of superb help in hospital from amazing nurses and we received loads of help as we began the diabetes journey.

“The first few days of giving Henry injections and testing his blood was stressful but he coped well. We quickly adapted to the diet and insulin regime.

“We have had fantastic support from our friends and family. Now, Henry is finding his diagnosis and the injecting harder to cope with, and it has been traumatic for the whole family. It has been an emotional rollercoaster.”

Matt, supported by a group of friends, is hoping to raise £2,000 for Diabetes UK by cycling 100 miles from Bath to Ilminster. The event, called Henry’s Hundred, will take place on Saturday.

Matt’s challenge is being supported by Henry, his fiveyear- old son Thomas, his twoyear- old daughter Elspeth, and his wife, Catherine.

Henry said: “My friends help me a lot at school and my best friend held my hand for injections when camping. At night the tests are annoying because I don’t get enough sleep. I still eat the food I like because mummy and daddy are careful with counting carbs.”