"Running is my passion, and there's nothing quite like ultra-running for me. It provides an incredible opportunity to explore new places, reflect on my thoughts, find inner peace, and enjoy moments of tranquility."
Jonty Brown, an avid runner, expresses his deep affection for the sport. He frequently participates in ultra-marathons and proudly shares that modern technology he has embraced as a user has allowed him to pursue his love for running despite being a type 1 diabetic.
At 35 years old and hailing from Harrogate, Jonty was diagnosed with diabetes at the tender age of 12. He vividly recalls the initial struggles he faced in managing his blood sugar levels.
"When I first found out, the overwhelming thought that hit me was the reality of having to inject myself multiple times throughout the day," he reflects. "Back then, I was pricking my fingers around 10 to 15 times daily and administering five or six injections. I even had a fear of needles, which certainly didn’t make things any easier."
Fortunately, through what he describes as "incredible support" from healthcare professionals in Harrogate and his family, Jonty eventually learned how to manage his diabetes more effectively. His journey became significantly smoother after he received an insulin pump and a blood glucose monitor.
Then, two years ago, Jonty became one of the pioneering individuals in the UK to utilize what is scientifically termed a hybrid closed-loop system, widely recognized as an artificial pancreas.
He elaborates, "I have a continuous glucose monitor placed on the back of my arm, which constantly checks my blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, I have my insulin pump located on the back of my leg."
These two devices seamlessly connect and communicate with each other via a specialized application. "It actively regulates my blood sugar levels for me," he explains.
Jonty asserts that this innovative technology, which is gradually being made available to more adults and children living with type 1 diabetes, has profoundly transformed his life.
"Managing my blood sugar during the night was one of the most challenging aspects, as levels fluctuate naturally. Now, this system handles it for me, keeping me within a healthy range, which has lifted a significant burden off my shoulders," he shares with enthusiasm.
The introduction of this technology has brought immense relief to Jonty, especially since he struggled with anxiety and depression during his teenage years—some of which stemmed from the pressures of managing diabetes.
"Waking up each morning not knowing whether my levels would be really low or excessively high was a dreadful way to start the day. That uncertainty created a natural sense of anxiety, but thanks to the monitor, I no longer experience that. It has made living with diabetes so much more manageable," he notes.
Jonty discovered his passion for running during the Covid pandemic and quickly became "hooked."
"It was a fantastic way to get outside and stay active. Eighteen months later, I achieved a milestone by becoming the first type 1 diabetic to run across the entirety of the UK," he proudly states.
After relocating to London, Jonty opened a running shop and humorously admits that running has become an integral part of his identity.
"Recently, I ran a 500-kilometer ultra-marathon from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. I finished in fourth place, making me the first type 1 diabetic to complete that challenge!" he adds with a smile.
Jonty emphasizes that this advanced technology has facilitated what would otherwise be a daunting endeavor.
"Using the pump while running has made everything much simpler. In the past, stopping to check my levels or give myself insulin could have been a real hassle. Now, I can keep my device in my pocket, glance at the screen, press a couple of buttons, and continue my run without interruption. It's truly made things so much easier these days."
For more inspiring stories from North Yorkshire, tune into highlights on BBC Sounds, and don’t miss the latest episode of Look North.
