Hello everyone, for the 39 days from 1st September to 9th October I'm taking part in Step Up For Stomas - The 39 Challenge by running(or walking) 3.9 miles a day.

Some of you might scoff that it is not that far. I really wish that was still the case for me. A year ago I had major surgery to remove my bladder following cancer. I now have stoma!

I pondered what I was going to do for this challenge for over a month, and just couldn't decide. I was doing parkrun most weeks, which is just over 3 miles, and before the pandemic was also running a few times midweek. But since my surgery, I haven't been running as frequently.

Through Colostomy UK I have done things that have given me the confidence that having a stoma, doesn't need to stop you. With them I have started playing Rugby League and now pull on the purple top of Team Colostomy UK(#upthepurps) whenever I can.

Every 39 minutes, someone in the UK has stoma surgery. This is at any age!

My stoma is called Homer, because I let my children name him. We will both be very grateful any donations. I know during the current times it is difficult, so just give what you are able to. Remember, as the Large supermarket keeps telling us, "Every little helps".

The funds you donate will help Colostomy UK to better support every one who needs them, from the patients, or the friends an families around them.