Thanks for taking the time to visit this fundraising page. TLDR at the bottom ;)

While, I'm eating my words and doing something I said I would never do: running for charity. I'm adding to the discomfort and fundraising for something I personally have had to live with: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or ME as I usually refer to it (though I absolutely cannot pronounce Myalgic Encephalomyelitis).

I was diagnosed about six years ago when I was fortunate enough (ironically) to end up in hospital and have every test in the book (I would not recommend a lumbar puncture). I suspect I had been living with ME for a few years prior to diagnosis and had gradually deteriorated to almost constant lethargy. When people ask what it's like ("because I'm tired too!" cue fake laughter) the best way I can describe my experience is to imagine walking against a strong wind, but with no actual wind there. It's like moving through treacle, with no discernible reason why. Suddenly it takes all of your will power to lift your arm and you can only stare at people talking to you because you're too tired to think of a response. All of these symptoms can come on in the blink of an eye, and all of them are so different for everyone.

Naturally, I did what every self-respecting 23 year old would do and completely ignored my diagnosis to the best of my ability... I didn't want to accept that I couldn't do all the things I wanted. I didn't want to have to say no to events and activities or opportunities at work. I wanted to be normal. All of this is bearing in mind that I was (and am) very much one of the lucky ones when it comes to living with ME, many people end up bed bound or unable to work.

The pandemic helped to make me confront my illness (because what better to do when you have too much time on your hands...) and I was talked into taking up running with the couch to 5k by my best friend as a way to attempt to build up my energy levels through gradiated exercise. I've had many stops and starts with ME causing setbacks and frustrations. But another friend's persuasion to join the Great North Run (GNR, not to be confused with GnR as an acronym for one of the greatest bands ever) ballot has prompted me to really work to stick to a plan, whilst moderating it for the days I make a limp noodle look structurally sound.

This is where you come in.

This page is fundraising for the Great North Run in September '23. Any money you would like to give would go towards the ME Association's work in supporting those living with ME and their loved ones as well as spreading awareness and support. In an effort to keep myself on track, as seven months is a long time to focus, I have a 'training' 10km race in June for which I am raising money for Cancer research UK. Please feel free to donate to either/or or even both if you are particularly keen!

The link to the Cancer Research UK page is below:
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/claires-giving-page-3551

Tarr very much!

Claire

TLDR: I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, it sucks, but I'm doing the best I can now. I'm running a half-marathon because I'm foolhardy and if I'm going to I want to raise money/awareness for something extremely close to my heart. I also have a just giving page for Cancer Research (link above) for my mid-plan 'training' run. Any amount for either page is very gratefully received!