💛 In November 2022, my gorgeous niece, Francesca, was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex. This devastating condition causes tumours to grow in the major organ systems, including the brain and heart, as well as myriad complications with developmental delay. It’s incurable.

However, Professor Andrew Tee and his team at Cardiff University are developing research into cannabidiol treatments to combat seizures in patients with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, and I’m running the Hackney Half Marathon in May to raise money to support their efforts. 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

Francesca’s diagnosis has knocked me and my family for six. While we know she will always be loved and well cared for, we don’t know what her future looks like, which is why the research at Cardiff University is so important - it gives patients and families like mine some hope that effective treatments are just around the corner, and that those with this diagnosis can live as ‘normal’ and fulfilling life as possible.