Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Millions of people wake up with arthritis every morning and face the day in pain, without the support and recognition they deserve. Arthritis attacks what it means to live and people with arthritis are often left to manage alone.

There are many forms of arthritis that could impact any of us at any time in our lives. What's more is that we don't currently know how to eradicate it from those that have been diagnosed. It's left as a condition that has to be managed and can flare up at any point.

Why did I Choose Versus Arthritis?

Many of you reading this will know this condition is very personal to us. Our daughter Niamh was diagnosed with arthritis (JIA) at just 16 months of age. We - along with 90%+ of people you speak to - were naïve enough to think the condition is just aches and pains for the older generation. When you are forced to research the condition it's much more sinister than we ever thought. In Niamh's case her immune system attacks the tissue around the joints in her body. Specifically, she suffered with her knees, ankles and neck!

We recently had great news in that the majority of Niamh's medication is to be withdrawn following 2 years of sustained treatment on what is a known cancer treating drug that can have side effects. After having regular visits to the amazing Rheumatology team at Alder Hey children's Hospital, we are under no illusions that Niamh is one of the lucky ones - It's hard to say that after seeing your child in agony, but I'm sure you will understand my point.  

The unpredictability of the condition and the fact it can stop you taking part in the things you enjoy (at any age) is a really sobering thought for me. A sports podcast I listen to (Socially Distant Sports Bar) often provokes the thought of knowing/realising when your last game of any sport/activity will be. That sentiment will be at the forefront of the mind for those with Arthritis.  Most of us take the pastimes/sports/activities we are able to do for granted.

The challenge in hand:
There's been too many reasons for me to appreciate what I have over the last few years. The fact I can walk and run is a blessing (and a miracle given the lockdown weight gain!). I vowed to achieve something and earn some money for charity and those less fortunate in the process. 

I'm no stranger to a half marathon, but a full marathon is a different beast! I will give it absolutely everything over the next 7 months so if you can please make a donation I will be extremely grateful! Along the way I will add a couple of gruelling endurance challenges into the fundraising drive before 2nd October 2022.   

Versus Arthritis
Versus Arthritis invests in breakthrough treatments, the best information and vital support for everyone affected by arthritis. Please sponsor me so that together we can overcome the pain, isolation and fatigue of arthritis.

Please have a look at the @VersusArthritis Twitter feed. Some stories on there really hit home what it can be like with this condition.