Running for a future beyond CF & Type 1

I'm Jakub, I'm 14 years old, and this November I'll be taking on my first ever 5K run at Run Fest at Silverstone! I was born with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), and when I was 9 years old, I was also diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, which means my body cannot produce insulin, so I have to manage my blood sugar all the time. Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong, genetic condition. A person with CF may appear fit and healthy, while behind the scenes managing medication, treatments, hospital appointments and the ongoing impact of a condition that affects lungs, digestion and overall health. One in 25 carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.

Both conditions are part of my everyday life. They mean endless treatments, medications, physiotherapy, tests, hospital appointments and a lot more planning than most people my age have to think about.
There are days when it's hard. Sometimes it can feel unfair having to deal with things that my friends don't have to worry about. But I've never wanted CF or diabetes to decide what I can and can't do!

To keep healthy, I've always stayed active. I used to swim competitively, I play water polo and squash, and this year I started running with my Dad. Running has become something I really love - when I'm out running, I feel free... I'm not thinking about hospital appointments, treatments or blood sugar levels. I'm just enjoying the moment and pushing myself to go a little further. It`s always hard and demanding 🏃‍♂️🏁

Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Diabetes UK support people like me, living with these conditions every day and they fund research that gives hope for better treatments and, one day, a cure.

I chose to do my first fundraising race at Silverstone because motorsport is my biggest passion. I hope to work in motorsport one day, so there felt like no better place to take on this challenge!!!
This run is about proving to myself that I can do hard things. It's about showing that having a disability doesn't stop you from setting big goals and achieving them! I want to help to create a future where people with Cystic Fibrosis and Type 1 Diabetes can spend less time managing their conditions and more time chasing their dreams.

If you're able to support me, I'd be incredibly grateful. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help fund research for cure and provide support to people living with Cystic Fibrosis and Type 1 Diabetes.

"Sometimes people see my conditions before they see me. I want to show that with determination, support and belief, we can achieve more than anyone expects.
Thank you for supporting me and making a difference.
Jakub"