Thank you for taking the time to read why I am doing this seemingly crazy challenge in support of The Pituitary Foundation.  Over the August Bank Holiday, I will attempt to complete my first Ironman (a ‘triathlon on steroids’ is probably the easiest way to explain it) in County Kerry, South-West Ireland.  I will be lining up for The Hardman, Killarney - ready to take in all that the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer.  

How did I get here you might ask?

I was, I thought, a pretty normal 15-year old. Maybe I’d had quite a few accidents through my life.. but nothing too serious.  Things were however, not as they seemed; I had a brain tumour the size of a large satsuma on my pituitary gland, which required surgery followed by radiotherapy, to remove.  The pituitary gland does a lot around the body, controlling all the hormones – adrenaline, growth, sex drive, energy levels, etc…  and so whilst some things can be very helpful (not really feeling nerves before an event!!), the majority aren’t and can have big consequences on well-being.  However, this experience has undoubtedly led to a desire to challenge myself.   

Having been forced by the pandemic to leave my work in Nepal, where I got the bug for trail running and large elevation gains, I decided at last it was time to try the athletic challenge I’d always had at the back of my mind, an ironman - a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42km run!

I’ve had fantastic support throughout my journey from family, friends, doctors and the Pituitary Foundation.  The charity runs workshops, has full time on-call endocrine nurses, and provide a wealth of information to inform patients and others about mine and other associated conditions. Similar to a lot of charities they have been heavily impacted by COVID-19, and due to their small size often get overlooked when it comes to donations.  Their work is crucial and provides a lifeline for those that need it.  To show my appreciation and raise awareness I am using this one opportunity to raise money for this amazing cause.

Thank you in advance for anything you are willing to give!

 Al