I am shaving my beard which has been living on my face for just under 6 years to raise money for Myositis UK. 

Myositis is the name for a group of rare conditions. The main symptoms are weak, painful or aching muscles. This usually gets worse, slowly over time and has no cure. You can read more about the condition below. 

It may not seem like a big deal, but to me, my beard has been one of my most defining features for just under 6 years and all of my adult life! Those around me will know how reluctant I am to shave it but I feel it is important that I raise awarenes and fundraise for Myositis UK. I will be posting a picture of the results and my transformation on the 26th of January on this Just Giving page! Save the date!

A few years ago, my mum was unfortunately diagnosed with Autoimmune Polymyositis. This brought into my world this relatively rare and unknown condition. Myositis required us to make a number of lifestyle changes and brought to my attention just how much an impact this condition can have on lives. Due to the treatment for this being immunosuppressive, the arrival of COVID-19 has exacerbated the impacts of the condition on our family and everyone else who is affected by the illness.

Myositis UK seeks to improve the diagnosis, treatment, understanding and prognosis of myositis. They do this by providing information, relieving isolation, raising funds, and funding research. We found Myositis UK very useful when my mum was first diagnosed as they have a wealth of information about the condition on their website. I am raising money for the charity to help to find a definitive cause and treatments for the condition.

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are thought to be autoimmune conditions. This is where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. In these cases it is the muscles, leading to persistent and chronic inflammation.

The definitive cause is unknown. Experts think genetic predisposition and environmental factors both play a part.

Myositis can affect people of any age. While genetic factors play a part, there is no good way to predict who will be affected by it.

There is currently no cure. Most types of myositis can be treated using steroids and other medications which suppress the immune system. 

With all of this in mind, I hope that you can join me in my efforts to raise awareness and help me to fundraise for Myositis UK!