Two years ago I made the decision to ask for donations instead of birthday presents. I didn't have a lot of money, and I'm not able to do most sponsored events, so this is the best way I could think of to support charities that are important for me; and I was trying to declutter.

This year not much has changed and I've decided that every other year I will fund raise for my birthday, choosing a different charity each time.

This year I've chosen Invest in ME (IiME) as it is one of the few charities that actually use the money raised to research M.E. as well as providing information and advice on the disability.  I don't have a lot of hope of a cure being found in my lifetime, but if I can make just a small difference in creating the possibility of a cure so others in the  future won't have to go through what I deal with every day, it will be the best birthday present I could possibly have.

I have had M.E. for over 10 years, and have been severely effected since May 2011, leaving me mainly housebound and unable to work. For a closer look at my life, please visit my personal blog http://emptythoughtsrewritten.blogspot.com

I know not everyone is able to spare much, but just 50p can make all the difference in reaching my goal, and I'd really appreciate friends and family to literally donate the money they would have spent on presents for me.