Teenager Raises £3,000 For St Mary’s Children’s Ward After Diabetes Diagnosis

The paediatric team at St Mary's Hospital has thanked a 13-year-old boy who cycled across the Isle of Wight to raise thousands of pounds for children’s services.

Fred Hall presented staff with a cheque for £3,000 last week after completing a sponsored bike ride around the Island in aid of paediatric services through the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Charity.

Fred was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in December 2024.

He was joined by his mum, step-dad, auntie and nanna as he handed over a ceremonial cheque to the team who supported him during his stay on the children’s ward.

Explaining what motivated him, Fred said that while he found the ward environment “amazing”, he felt small changes — such as adding a gaming room — could make it even better for young patients.

He also wanted to raise awareness of the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes and felt the bike ride was a positive way to do that.

Clinical Psychologist Dr Laura Bohane praised Fred and his family for their efforts, describing the amount raised as “incredible” and commending Fred for the maturity he has shown since his diagnosis.

Fred, who was diagnosed during his first week at secondary school at The Priory in Whippingham, admitted the news was initially “hard and scary” but said it quickly became part of everyday life.

He said he first blamed himself — thinking it may have been caused by drinking a carton of orange juice the night before — but has since learned from the hospital’s diabetes team that it was not his fault.

Fred also paid tribute to his school friends for their support, saying they have taken a keen interest in learning about the condition.

He gave a special mention to his friend Albert, who he described as his “personal school nurse” for helping him if his blood glucose levels drop during the school day.

There are around 100 children living with Type 1 diabetes on the Isle of Wight, with approximately ten new diagnoses each year.

Dr Bohane is urging parents to be aware of the warning signs, often referred to as the ‘four Ts’: Toilet — frequent urination; Thirsty — excessive thirst; Thinner — unexplained weight loss; and Tired — unusual fatigue. She says early medical advice is crucial if symptoms are spotted.

She added that the resilience shown by young people living with Type 1 diabetes is remarkable, and praised Fred for helping raise awareness while supporting other children through his fundraising efforts.