Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

On Sunday 10th October 2021, I ran the Royal parks half marathon for Lupus UK and I feel on top of the world with this achievement.

It was a challenge to run again but I believed I could and I DID IT!

My aim was to take part, challenge myself, raise awareness about hidden disabilities and finish with my medal sat proudly on my chest.

I finished with a time 9 mins slower than the last time I took part in the half marathon, but this year felt extra special because I didn't let my health stop me from finishing. 

An emotional and painful 13.1 mile run, I finished with a time of 3 hours 47 mins.

There is no cure for Lupus, only management. Lupus affects over 5 million people worldwide and I am raising money and raising awareness about hidden disabilities.

Earlier this year, I began to experience symptoms relating to Lupus and am now being monitored to determine if I do have this illness.

So far so good in regards to my organs being healthy and there is no signs of damage. Blood tests did confirm other conditions but I was fortunate to manage these and reverse these conditions through lifestyle changes.

There is a long list of things that have affected me throughout the years, but this year I listened to my body, sought medical attention and made that step to take my health more seriously.

Fatigue, muscle soreness, joint pain, mind fog and even speech slurring are my current symptoms that come and go. I have a rash on my face and have experienced minor hair loss. All of the above are Lupus related symptoms, which could take years to investigate whether I have this illness. Until then, I have to manage my pain, rest when I need to and carry on with the support of my family and medical team.

Some days I am "miss energy" and some days it takes me a while to warm up to get going. I can't control my pain and it has been very frustrating when I am not able to do certain things the way I want to.

I am an expert at turning negatives in to a positive and I will not let my flare ups defeat me.

My health has taught me to be present and slow down. It has taught me to ask for help when needed.

It has taught me that this woman has a strong, powerful body that can run, climb a mountain, birth a big baby, can lift heavy, dance and do the splits!

Whatever the outcome I will not be defeated.

I smile through the pain and am grateful to live a full beautiful life, doing things that I want to do.

Thank you for reading my essay.😃

Please spread the message about raising money for Lupus UK and other charities that support hidden disabilities.

I appreciate you.

Thank you with all my heart.

Alicia

Follow me on socials: @alicia_music and @mummytummybubba