Twelve employees of Beckton Dickinson (BD) have set themselves a remarkable challenge of cycling from Malin Head to Mizen Head in 24 hours. Leaving Malin Head at 12 noon on Thursday 17th June, they plan to cycle the 570km route through the night with 10 short stops over the 24 hours, reaching Mizen Head at 11.40am on Friday 18th June.
Peter Ferguson, who dreamed up the challenge, sought other BD cycling mad work colleagues to join him and had a great response from his work colleagues. Peter said “BD specialises in the design and manufacture of insulin pend and syringes and this year marks 50 years of diabetes care and manufacturing by BD in Ireland. This year also marks the 100-year anniversary of the discovery of insulin so supporting Diabetes Ireland by raising as much funds as possible for the charity was a natural fit”.
The discovery of insulin has a strong Irish connection. Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin and its potential for managing diabetes, lived in Ontario, Canada; his father William Banting was a farmer of Irish descent, and his mother Margaret was also Irish.
Diabetes Ireland is delighted to be involved in this event and we wish the 12 cyclists who will need to average 26km per hour and have all been training hard over the past number of months and their support team of 8 colleagues, family, and friends the very best of luck with this exciting challenge. Diabetes affects 1 in every 3 families in Ireland, and there is also a large percentage of the population at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Our aim is to help and support our community to manage their diabetes as effectively as they can, remain healthy and enjoy a high quality of life.
To show your support of the team for taking on this huge challenge and support Diabetes Ireland, donate to: BD Ireland – Mizen to Malin – 24hrs, 570km, 100 Years of Insulin fundraising for Diabetes Ireland on JustGiving and also follow updates across Diabetes Ireland social media platforms.