The Isle of Man FA is delighted to pledge this season's Hospital Cup charity donations - £300 - to Sarah Jones' rowing challenge for Diabetes IOM, which does great work raising awareness and campaigning for children and adults with diabetes on the Island.

Her husband, Isle of Man footballer Frank Jones, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 10 years ago.

Sarah will attempt the 10-hour challenge on Sunday (14th November), which is globally recognised as World Diabetes Day. She will stop only for short food and water breaks.

On 5th November 2011, Sarah's husband Frank was rushed into hospital and diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes aged 24 years old.

In the weeks before Frank was diagnosed, he had become incredibly tired, was extremely thirsty all the time and had visibly lost weight. In hindsight, these were all the classic signs of undiagnosed diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin producing cells. Everyone needs insulin to live and in 2021, it is also celebration marking 100 years since the discovery of insulin, which is still the only effective treatment for people with Type 1 diabetes.

Playing sport is proven to be beneficial in helping to manage diabetes but it also presents challenges in maintaining good blood glucose levels. 

The IOMFA is committed to Football for All and this includes encouraging children and adults to get involved in football regardless of any medical condition or disability.

To read more or to sponsor Sarah, click here.