John Edkins 73 years old, Yorkshire

John is a retired Navy officer and picture framer who recently underwent an above-knee amputation. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 35, after initially being told it was Type 2, John has faced the challenges of managing this condition for nearly four decades.

His diabetes, coupled with circulatory issues, led to a gradual decline in his leg health despite various interventions, including a quadruple heart bypass and a vein transplant on his left leg. In early 2024, his right foot began deteriorating, resulting in the loss of a toe. When his circulation issues worsened, he underwent an above-knee amputation, spending over three months in hospital as he adapted to life with a prosthetic.

Why did he join the AmpuNATION project?

John now hopes to correct misconceptions surrounding diabetes, particularly the frequent association between diabetes and obesity, emphasising that diabetes is a complex and serious condition requiring attention and understanding.

Diabetes is a serious, complex condition, and I want people to understand that it’s not just linked to obesity or diet — it’s far more intricate. I was faced with a choice of either amputation or perhaps not seeing my grandchildren grow up, so I hope that younger generations will learn from my experience and understand how lifestyle choices can impact their health long term.