Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 10,900 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing. Cystic fibrosis comes with challenges, affecting our physical health, mental wellbeing and how we choose to live our lives. But our community is uniting towards the ultimate goal of effective treatment for all. Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the charity uniting people to stop cystic fibrosis.

As many of you know, my nephew Xander was diagnosed with the condition in January 2021, aged just 4 months. Next month, as he turns 4, I am embarking on a running challenge to raise vital funds for CF Trust.

Shortly after his diagnosis we learned that Xander's mutations are exceptionally rare. He is in 'the other 10%' for whom the highly-praised modulator therapies aren't thought to work. For that reason, and until a therapy is developed to effectively target his CF, he will continue to rely on physio, airway clearance and lots of exercise to keep his lungs as clear as possible.

What better way to mark his journey from diagnosis at 4 months to his 4th birthday than taking on 4 individual running events.......

The challenge starts what is arguably one of the most well known half marathons in the world, The Great North Run on September 8th. A week later I'll be running the Ratoath Half Marathon (14th) and the Rock the Lough 10k (15th). The final leg of the challenge is the Belfast City Half Marathon on September 22nd.

CF is a daily challenge for Xander and others like him which is why I have chosen to challenge myself to do something out of my comfort zone. This will be the first time I have covered this sort of distance over a short period of time and I'd be lying if I said it wasn't more than a little daunting!

The idea was born on a cold, dark night in March, not long after I'd started heading out with The Porterstown Panthers. Despite my lack of running experience everyone I spoke to in the group assured me that if I kept turning up, week after week, my legs would take care of the rest. Fast forward five months and the preparation is nearly complete with one long run left to do before the challenge kicks off on September the 8th with The Great North Run!

The challenge comes to a close in Belfast, my home city, on September 22nd. If you happen to be in the area I'd love to see some friendly faces along the route. At that stage my legs may need every extra cheer going!

Let's unite for a life unlimited for Xander and the thousands like him with CF.