THE mother of a young woman who died from complications caused by type 1 diabetes is backing an event aimed at helping young adults with the condition.

The Big 1 being staged at Swindon Town Football Club on June 16 will offer 16 to 26-year-olds a chance to meet and talk to others living with it.

Diabetes UK Swindon's group is donating £3,500 and has teamed up with Swindon-based charity Sabrina’s Mile, which is also donating £850 to help run the day.

The charity, which was set up in memory of Sabrina Moccia, who died at the age of 33 from diabetic ketoacidosis. Her mum Luisa continues to raise money for diabetes charities and organise events to highlight the condition.

She said: “Sabrina was diagnosed at the age of 26. Going to an event like #TheBig1 and meeting other people her age with diabetes would have been amazing for her. It would have given her such a boost. It’s so important to get people together. None of Sabrina’s friends had diabetes and she felt quite alone sometimes.

“At that age the world can seem like a lonely place for those who have diabetes, but this is the chance for them to meet like-minded people who can make all the difference.

“This is why the Sabrina’s Mile is so important because it is a charity that wants to help, and lives will be changed in her name.”

People will also be able to hear from experts and inspirational people who have the condition, including Welsh sprinter Melanie Stephenson who has competed at national and international level.

TheBig 1 will focus on what it is like to live with diabetes as a young adult, aiming to answer some of the many questions people in this age group often raise about things like travel, how the condition affects relationships and how far they can push themselves in sport.

Matt Robert, Diabetes UK improving care manager for the south west, said: “That crucial decade between 16 and 26 is when you are getting out in the world, starting work, going to university, having relationships.

“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 stay in control of your diabetes. So, it can also be a difficult time, especially if you don’t know anyone else in the same boat.

“The Big 1 is a chance to meet other people who know exactly what you’re going through and actually be part of something.”

People who sign up for the event will be able to take a plus one. Under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult. For a free place visit eu.eventscloud.com/thebig1.

When we lost her, the world seemed like a lonely place for those who loved her and knew her well. That is why Sabrina’s Mile is so important because a special person like her cannot be forgotten. Lives will be changed in her name