On Sunday 6th April 2025, I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for the ME Association.

As family and friends will know, my partner’s mum, Kate, has lived with ME for the last 13 years. In spite of this, Kate’s resilience is truly inspiring. Anyone who knows Kate will tell you that she has the kindest, warmest heart, always making those around her smile despite the daily challenges she faces. I want to channel Kate’s resilience by setting my mind (and body) to something as challenging as a half marathon to raise money for the ME Association.

The ME Association runs fantastic campaigns designed to help every one of the 265,000 people in the UK whose lives have been blighted by ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Encephalopathy), otherwise known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The charity is also offering brilliant support to people still suffering from the devastating effects of Long Covid, which in many respects looks so much like ME/CFS.

For those who may not be aware of the symptoms that people with ME experience, the smallest exertion can floor them; their joints and muscles ache unbearably; restful sleep eludes them; and cognitive strain can cloud their thinking. It changes lives drastically – disrupting study; making work impossible; and straining family relations to breaking point. Many sufferers cannot leave their homes.

Sadly, there is still no known cure.

Alongside The ME Association’s support for those living with ME/CFS, the charity funds important biomedical research to investigate what causes and perpetuates ME in the search for effective treatments. As a PhD student working in medical research, I know first-hand that pioneering research cannot take place without the support of charities like The ME Association.

Your support through donations would mean the world to me as I take on this challenge. Let's work together to raise as much money as possible for the ME Association, enabling them to continue their incredible work. Thank you so much! ❤️