Places for People CEO to "run the world" – literally – in support of Diabetes UK with “Blood Sugar, Sweat and Tears” challenge

On Saturday 4 October, at the scenic Cramond Parkrun near Edinburgh, Greg Reed, CEO of Places for People (PfP), will complete a staggering personal milestone: running 40,075 kilometres - the equivalent of the circumference of the Earth.

This remarkable journey has spanned nearly 20 years and seen Greg raise over £100,000 for both Diabetes UK and Ronald McDonald House charities. 

Greg’s running odyssey began in 2006 after he was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, a condition that prompted him to take control of his health through running. Over the last two decades, he has averaged just over five kilometres a day, making running a daily ritual through life’s ups and downs.

But it was in 2017 when Greg faced a critical wake-up call.

“Twenty years ago, when I found out I had Type 2 Diabetes, the first thing I did was buy a pair of Nike trainers that had the little pod inside the sole syncing to my iPod,” Greg recalled. “I never imagined I’d be running the equivalent of the Earth’s circumference one day, it just grew from that first step, and I’ve logged every kilometre. 

“Then in 2017, my diabetes consultant gave me a stark choice: make big changes or face the reality that in ten years I might be blind or worse. That was a moment of clarity - not just about running, but about life. A friend gave me a book by the late Dr Michael Mosely, the Blood Sugar Diet, and it changed my life.

“I changed my diet drastically and stepped up my running. In 2024, I challenged myself to run over 50 miles per week and raised funds for Diabetes UK. Now, as I approach this milestone, I’m calling my effort ‘Blood Sugar, Sweat and Tears’, because it’s about more than just the kilometres. It’s about resilience, hope, and raising awareness for everyone living with diabetes.”

Colette Marshall, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said: "Greg's story is truly inspirational and we send our heartfelt congratulations to him on this milestone. We are so grateful for his extraordinary commitment to the challenge, which raises vital funds for our work and inspires others to take their own steps towards better health."

Greg’s commitment has inspired a vibrant running culture within PfP, growing a virtual running club to over 400 members who share their journeys and support each other’s health goals.

Greg will mark the final five kilometres of his journey on 4 October at Edinburgh’s Cramond Park Parkrun, closing a loop of dedication and determination.

You can support Greg’s Blood Sugar, Sweat and Tears challenge and help raise funds for Diabetes UK here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/blood-sugar-sweat-and-tears