Hello! My name is Mia and I am running my first half-marathon for the Oesophageal Patients Association. Thank you so much to everyone taking the time to even just read this, it means the world to me! :) xx

Why the OPA?

This charity is very close to my heart after my Dad was diagnosed with Achalasia, an incurable disease in 2017. Achalasia is a a rare 1 in 100,000 disease with no cure, and causes seizures of the oesophagus which prevents eating and drinking without intense pain.This later led to being diagnosed with esophageal cancer in May 2018 after a long period in hospital. Esophageal cancer has a survival rate of less than 20%. Not only this, but my family also lost my grandfather to esophageal cancer. 

Where will your donations go?

There is currently very little support and research is being put into serious esophageal conditions. The OPA is therefore a VERY worthwhile cause, as it is the only charity in the UK that is trying to develop CURES! 

The OPA also offers information and support for the patients/families and careers affected by Achalasia disease and Oesophageal/Gastric Cancers. Please help us find a cure!

About me

I'm 16 years old and have been involved in competitive sports for more than half of my life. However that is not to say that this is not a big challenge!!! I have mainly competed in Sprinting, with a half marathon being quite a bit more than just a sprint! I am running the only Half Marathon in the UK that allows 16 year olds to run. I am EXTREMELY passionate about not only the cause I am running for, but also running itself, something that I have always had a love for :)

THANK YOU!!! xxxx