Cycle marathon to raise awareness about diabetes

The pedal-powered project, called For a Piece of Cake, is being undertaken by Riccardo Rocchi and Chiara Ricciardi, who suffers from type 1 diabetes.

The title is symbolic because because for a diabetic, a slice of cake is more than simple pleasure, it’s an achievement.

Chiara is being supported by Leighton-based Peli BioThermal, which designs the vital temperature-controlled equipment she needs for her insulin supplies.

The company has provided Chiara with its Credo ProMed, a robust medical transport bag usually used by emergency first responders and medical couriers to ensure protected pharmaceuticals remain intact.

Chiara said: “One challenge is keeping my insulin cool – we have to plan our trip in order to find a freezer every 73 hours. But making such a journey with diabetes is a big opportunity to show how this disease shouldn’t stop anybody.” The couple were in the saddle on World Diabetes Day on November 14.

Company spokesman Adam Tatz said: “Raising awareness of the condition which affects more than 400 million people worldwide is critical. Their efforts are inspirational and we’re confident will continue to shine a light on this global health issue.”