A DIABETES event held in Swindon will be a chance for young sufferers to understand more about the illness.

National charity, Diabetes UK is hosting a free event for people aged 16 to 26 to get advice about the condition.

The event, #TheBig1 will be focused on what it is like to live with the Type 1 diabetes, which is treated by daily insulin doses.

Graphic designer Holly Carter, 23, who is from Swindon but now living in Ashford, Surrey, said: “I am looking forward to chatting with them about how they approach it - I think it will be useful and reassuring.

“I have an insulin pump and this is a great opportunity for me to explain to other people about the value and benefits of switching to one.”

Diabetes Type 1 is a genetic disease where the body produces too much glucose in the blood as the body cannot use it properly.

Matt Robert, Diabetes UK improving care manager for the south west, said: “It’s an exciting time but, if you have Type 1 diabetes there’s a lot of juggling to make sure you can do all the things you want to do but still stay in control of your condition. So, it can also be a difficult time, especially if you don’t know anyone else in the same boat.

“#This is a chance to meet other people who know exactly what you’re going through and be part of something.”

The event will take place at Swindon Town Football Club on Saturday June 16 from 10.30 until 16.00.