Mum of six to run Great North Run in memory of son

Dianne Platt is raising money for a juvenile diabetes charity, as well as raising awareness about the disease, after her 18-year-old son, Saxon, tragically died in February after falling into a diabetic coma.

He was in his first year at Newcastle University, where he was studying law.

Dianne, who owns Coffee and Crafts pottery painting studio in Barrowford, said Saxon would have laughed at the thought of her running 13 miles.

But she has used him as her inspiration in all of her training runs, and he will be at the forefront of her thoughts on the start line and every step of the famous course as she raises money for a juvenile diabetes charity.

JDRF is the leading global organization harnessing the power of research, advocacy, and community engagement to advance life-changing breakthroughs for type 1 diabetes (T1D).

“My precious son Saxon sadly passed away in February whilst away at university after going into a diabetic coma. Saxon was just 18 years old,” Dianne explained.

“Saxon will be smiling down and chuckling at the prospect of me running 13 miles but with every step I will be thinking of him.

“To know that I will be in some way helping to find a cure for this condition will be worth it as no family should go through this.

“All diabetic children deserve to live a full life.

“I am doing this for my Saxon, my boy, my love.

“If you could spare just £1 I will be forever grateful.”

Dianne will run with three of her children - Kieran, Georgia and Lily - while daughters 

Roxy and Tabby will be cheering them on from the sidelines.

She has so far raised over £1,800 - surpassing her initial £450 target - but donations can still be made by visiting here.