Family raise £65k in teen’s memory

MORE than £65,000 has now been raised in memory of a Cardiff schoolboy who died from undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes.

Peter Baldwin, a pupil at Whitchurch High School, died on January 6, 2015, after battling a chest infection and virus which was masking his true condition.

The 13-year-old was unable to cope with several illnesses at once and passed away peacefully in hospital.

Two years on from the tragedy, his family have helped raise an incredible £65,000 for Diabetes UK Cymru.

On Saturday, February 18, a glamorous James Bond-themed ball was held at St David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay which on its own raised £13,000.

X Factor star Helen Fulthorpe, whose son was seriously ill with Type 1 diabetes, sang to the guests. An auction featured a signed shirt by Wales and Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, a former pupil at Whitchurch High.

Peter’s mum Beth, who organised the event, said: “We want to thank all of our guests and all of the local businesses who helped create such a fantastic night. We have been blown away by their generosity.

“Life without Peter is so tough, but knowing that by raising awareness of Type 1 diabetes we can help save lives in his memory is what drives us. Peter will be beaming with pride.”

The money raised by the ball will be used as part of an ongoing campaign by Diabetes UK Cymru to raise awareness of the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes.

Signs of the condition can be difficult to identify but the charity aims to make people aware of the “four Ts” of Type 1 diabetes, which are toilet, tired, thirsty and thinner.

Unlike Type 2, Type 1 is not affected by lifestyle measures such as a healthy diet, weight loss, and exercise.

Diabetes UK Cymru’s director Dai Williams said: “The money raised will help us continue Peter’s legacy to raise awareness of the seriousness of Type 1 diabetes.”