A GROUP of ‘marathon medics’ from Okehampton have raised more than £1,300 for Diabetes UK by each running a marathon distance during October.

Okehampton Medical Centre practice manager Kiran Bakhshi, GPs Emma Chapman and Jane Weldon and nurse Pip Rhubrah joined in the 26.2-mile challenge with patient services advisor Elaine Wood after Elaine’s son Jack, 13, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes earlier this year.

Together they have raised more than £1,300 for the charity, which invited people to notch up 26.2 miles throughout October.

Elaine, who has only worked at the practice since June, said she was touched by her colleagues’ support after Jack was diagnosed with the condition on August Bank Holiday.

Type 1 diabetes means that the body is unable to produce its own insulin, so Jack has to have regular insulin injections every time he eats. He also needs insulin injections during the day and night.

‘Jack’s been amazing, he’s really taken it on board,’ said Elaine.

‘I wanted to do something to support him. I used to run but it was years and years ago, so it was a bit of a challenge but nothing compared to what Jack has been through.’

They each notched up their total separately, with nurse Pip taking part in a half marathon as part of her total.

‘Between us we have covered 148.1 miles,’ said Elaine. ‘They are all extremely passionate about diabetes and diabetes care and so they were very keen to take part; they help out with a lot of charities at the surgery. It was fantastic and I honestly can’t thank the surgery enough. They have just been great. It has provided a much-needed boost for Jack.’