A five-year-old with diabetes has had help from his favourite football club on the way to completing 100 kick-ups a day to help others like him.
Archer Blackwood from Ipswich is nearing the end of his month-long challenge to help others with diabetes after being diagnosed when he was just three years old.
Due to the advancement of medical technology and funding, Archer is still able to participate in karate and football, and live a life a five-year-old should lead.
Archer Blackwood was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in October 2020 (Image: Sandy Blackwood)
Throughout November, which is National Diabetes Awareness month, Archer has raised over £550 for Diabetes UK.
Archer's mum, Sandy, said: "The main reason he wanted to do this was to raise awareness of type one diabetes.
"Neither my husband nor I had any idea about it.
"We went to a friend's house for dinner and she noticed the symptoms and told us to get him to a GP.
Archer Blackwood at Portman Road (Image: Sandy Blackwood)
"He's the only one at school with diabetes, and in his family, and he has had to help people understand what it is like to live with it.
As part of the challenge, Ipswich Town invited Archer to Portman Road on one of the days to do his 100 kicks.
Mrs Blackwood said: "It was a very special day for us as a family and for Archer who loves football and has worked so hard to do this challenge and raise money for diabetes research.
"Archer was able to go through the players' tunnel, tour the home changing room and do his kicks in the dugout pitch side.
Archer with parents Sandy and Jak at Portman Road (Image: Sandy Blackwood)
Archer was invited to Ipswich Town to do the keep-ups (Image: Sandy Blackwood)
"They were so accommodating and lovely.
"They've even organised for him to go down to watch a match in January as well, which is really nice of them to just offer tickets, and it will be his first live football match as well."
Archer, who was born in Ipswich Hospital, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, with Mrs Blackwood praising the work they have done for him.
She said: "They are absolutely fantastic.
"We couldn't be more grateful for the care they have given to him."
She also said that Archer's school, Tattingstone Primary, are "absolute gems" for looking after his diabetes while he's at school.
To donate to Archer's efforts, click here.
Archer Blackwood at Portman Road (Image: Sandy Blackwood)
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