Hi All,

I have decided to complete the 3 Peaks Challenge, which entails going to the highest part in Scotland, Wales and England within 24 hours, in order to raise money for my chosen, close to heart charity.

 As you may or may not know, my mother was diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) in 1987. There has been many points when her symptoms have been so severe that the slightest movement can cause unbearable pain and suffering. If you know her then you will know she is the most truly kind, caring, witty and intelligent woman; who has even when bedridden, worked to sustain as normal a family life as possible. Although she could never go to the park or go swimming, there were still times to play monopoly on the bed and she would always be there when school was over and in this way; I always felt like the luckiest son in the world.

ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) as it is also known is a widely misunderstood condition and many find it very hard to understand or get their head round, as the pain and suffering which is caused is internal and cannot be physically seen. A lot of people are unaware of the possible long term effects and generally believe the illness is based on fatigue symptom alone. Yet it affects both adults and children, with disability definitions ranging from mild, moderate to severe and very severe. The general symptoms are often not visible. Most people have known those who experience mild to moderate symptoms and often return to normal health. However, little are aware of people who suffer severely. Research has been commissioned into those who have long term severe symptoms which cause debilitating fatigue, painful muscles and joints, swollen glands, headaches, sleeping and gastric disturbances, cognitive issues and concentration. In many cases, the cause seems to be linked to an operation or accident which leads to infection with the majority of cases describing associated links with viral based infections.

This UK charity challenge is to help fund biomedical research into ultimately finding a cure! We could all make a difference in bringing that time closer and changing people’s lives for the better. I strongly believe that this illness needs more awareness, support and any donations will be welcome. I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this today, as you are now one more person aware of ME and knowledge always builds understanding, which is so important to those who live with this illness. J