X Factor mum to help JDRF raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes

2014 X Factor contestant Helen Fulthorpe – whose son lives with Type 1 diabetes – has become an ambassador for JDRF.

She will help the charity to raise awareness of the condition and will be performing at its annual Christmas Celebration Concert in London in December.

I think it is so important to inform people about Type 1 diabetes, and support and help those affected by it too

The 34-year-old mother of two knew nothing about type 1 diabetes until her son, Joseph, was diagnosed with the condition last year. Now passionate about supporting JDRF and its mission, she said: “I think it is so important to inform people about Type 1 diabetes, and support and help those affected by it too. I am honoured to be an ambassador for this amazing charity.”

In 2007, after training as a dental nurse, Helen had a sudden change of heart and decided to embark on a career in music. Her two children then decided to apply for the X factor on their mother’s behalf. Helen impressed both the audience and the judges and reached the last few stages of the competition.

Helen will be performing at the JDRF Christmas Celebration Concert on Saturday 6 December.  She will be joined by the show stopping Fulham Brass Band and the Type 1 Children’s Choir. There will be Christmas drinks, mince pies and general festive cheer. All proceeds from the event will go to JDRF.

Louise Ingham, Development Manager at JDRF said: “Helen has the most wonderful and dazzling stage presence. I am really delighted to be welcoming her to this year’s Christmas Concert! A big thank you to Helen – and every other participant – for supporting our mission to eradicate Type 1 diabetes.”

Tickets for the concert are £20 and under 16s go free.  For more information and to buy yours before they sell out, visit JDRF’s website here.