Raise awareness of Type 1 Diabetes in young children

Hi, we’re Lyka and Keenan, and we are raising awareness for Type 1 Diabetes in children, a condition that we believe isn't spoken about enough, especially considering how life-altering it is—for the child and the whole family.

This campaign is incredibly personal to us, as it marks one year since our daughter, Pippa, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. To honour this anniversary and everything she’s overcome, we are setting up this GoFundMe to raise funds for Diabetes UK, a charity that holds a very special place in our hearts and has helped us tremendously through our journey.

Pippa’s Story

Our lives changed forever on 30th October 2024.

Pippa was just one year old when she became incredibly unwell. What started as what we thought was an ear infection, stomach bug, and severe fatigue quickly turned into something much more serious.

After a visit to the doctor, we were told it was an ear infection and were prescribed antibiotics. But she didn’t improve—she worsened. At the hospital, we were told the same: a severe ear infection with a perforated eardrum and a stomach bug. But over the next 24 to 48 hours, Pippa deteriorated rapidly—constantly sleeping, unresponsive and unable to keep any fluids down.

As a mother, I knew something wasn’t right. We returned to the hospital again, and after more tests, we were told Pippa was in severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)—a life-threatening condition caused by dangerously high blood sugar which then causes your ketone levels to rise due to lack of insulin. She was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.

Living With Type 1

Receiving that diagnosis was overwhelming. In an instant, our lives were forever changed. Type 1 Diabetes isn’t just about managing food—it affects every part of life.

Pippa will never be able to eat without thinking about counting carbs and calculating insulin units. She won’t be able to just run to the park, have a treat, or enjoy a day out without someone managing her blood sugars behind the scenes. And as she grows up, every decision—from going out with friends to managing hormones, stress, illness or even sleep—will have to take her diabetes into account.

There’s no break, no day off. Even now, almost a year on, we face daily challenges to keep her healthy and safe.

Why We’re Fundraising

Despite everything she’s been through, Pippa is a bright, clever, happy little girl—and she continues to amaze us every single day with her strength and smile.

We’re sharing our story in the hope that it helps others understand the realities of living with Type 1 Diabetes, especially in children, and inspires more people to support the amazing work Diabetes UK does. From funding vital research to supporting families just like ours, they’ve made a real difference—and we want to help them continue.

If you’ve read this far, thank you. And if you can donate—even just a little—you’ll be supporting a cause that means the world to us.

With love,

Lyka, Keenan & Pippa x