Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Due to Covid and the cancellation of the official Great North Run event, I will be running a half Marathon from Full Circle Brew Co in Newcastle, through Newcastle, across the Tyne and back down the Gateshead side of the river, back to Full Circle.
M.E. (Myalgic Encephalopathy), or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, is an illness that blights the lives of 250,000 people in UK today. It's more common in women than men (2:1), and can affect anyone of any age.
People with M.E, (PwME) find that even the smallest exertion can floor them; their joints and muscles ache unbearably; restful sleep eludes them; and ‘brain fog’ clouds even the smallest judgment.
M.E. changes not only the lives of those diagnosed drastically but also the lives of those around them. M.E. can disrupt education; make employment impossible; and strain family relations to breaking point. People may be housebound or confined to bed for many months or years.
There is no known cure for M.E., and there is little consensus around what causes it. Funding raised by Action for M.E. goes to supporting those diagnosed to better manage, understand and survive their condition. The charity also supports research investigating the potential causes and treatments for ME.
Some words from wife Emma about her disability:
"As you probably know by now, I was diagnosed with M.E. 3 years ago (although have been suffering with it for nearly 10). It has limited my ability to study and work full time, to go to the gym and run like I used to and leaves me with a daily battle with brain fog and ensuring I get enough good quality rest (which is easier said than done when you are hyper sensitive to sound, light and smell). Although M.E. has impacted my day to day life, I am aware that I am only mildly affected, and have an excellent support network both at home and work. Others aren't so lucky and need more external support form organisations such as Action for M.E."
If you can afford to, please donate and support the very important work Action for M.E. do. If you can't afford to donate, perhaps consider having a chat to a friend about the condition to raise awareness. Whatever you do please remember that you never know what someone is experiencing by how they look or come across. Just because someone looks "well" doesn't mean they are. Give people time, try not to judge, and be kind, always!
Thank you!
Alex and Emma