In 2019 I was diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disease Primary Sclerosing Chaolangitis (PSC), having already suffered with ulcerative colitis since I was 15 Years old. As a young professional living in London, I thought the tiredness and fatigue was part of living a busy London life but it was my partner, Liv who knew something wasn’t right. She pushed me to see a consultant and after a number of tests it was confirmed I had PSC. 

The one thing everyone says to you when you’re diagnosed with PSC is don’t google it. Naturally, this was the first thing myself, my partner and family did. The internet is a very scary place! Especially the information about PSC, which is due to the lack of research and understanding for the disease; the only information available is around liver transplants and the severity of the condition. 

Being diagnosed at 24 years old, after graduating from Cardiff Metropolitan University -  I thought my life was over. It hit me hard, and I took some time out of my graduate scheme with the Go-Ahead Group to get my mind and body straight and focus on accepting the disease. This was a massive decision, as I had just moved to London to start a new life and focus on a career. Nonetheless, the time out was much needed. I traveled South East Asia with my partner, and this was the most amazing time to reflect and process things, as well as spending time focusing on my health. 

I am now back working and have recently taken a position as the Group Sales Director for the Birkin Group, where I manage the responsibility of running a department and growing the business, in addition to managing my health and liver. 

Despite periods of fatigue, I am very lucky that my general health remains fairly well managed. However, there is one side effect which no one would ever link to to a liver condition… the itch! Itching is definitely my weak spot, and really does affect me, especially during the winter. It exacerbates my eczema and at points can be unbearable. 

I feel very lucky that I attend Kings College Hospital in London and am under the watch of Dr Joshi who is one of the UKs leading consultants and researchers for PSC. 

I’m running the London marathon to raise money for PSC support, which will fund vital research into finding a cure. As this charity is particularly close to my heart, I would really appreciate sponsorship of any sort. Together we can beat PSC. 

#LetsBeatPSC

PSC Support is the only UK charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by the rare, autoimmune disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC has no cure or medical treatment.Donating to my fundraising page means you are helping PSC Support to provide much-needed support and information to people affected by PSC. Critically, you'll be helping PSC Support to fund and drive groundbreaking PSC research, taking us closer and closer to a cure. Every penny counts. Thank you. #LetsBeatPSC