Three of Martin’s siblings live with type 1 diabetes so when Martin was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in his early 60’s, he faced the type of joyful support only siblings can provide – “they thought it was hilarious,” recalls Martin.

While his siblings may not have been entirely supportive, Martin decided to take action when he received an email inviting him to join a Beat It course.

Standing at 176cm and weighing in at 122kgs Martin knew he had to get back to exercise, despite his problematic knee and several other health conditions.

He began the eight-week course during the first lockdown and praised the course for giving him a window into an outdoor world.

“Beat it did a couple of things,” says Martin.

“The educational aspect was very interesting, as was the activity component, but the social component was extremely significant. There were about six of us in the group and the facilitator Demi Chapman was so engaging she got all of us talking to each other.”

Martin has nothing but praise for Demi and her leadership skills.

By attending the course Martin has found a new determination to continue the good work. After losing an initial 4kgs, he has continued to follow the exercises and now weighs in at 111kgs.