This September I will be running on behalf of ME Association.

As some already know, my wife Sarah has been suffering from very severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (‘ME’) or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (‘CFS’) for the last 18months as a result of Covid.

For the last year, she hasn’t been able to get out of bed, sit up, have conversations, see her friends, read, listen to music, watch tv, use her phone and at her worst hasn’t been able to withstand any light or sound so is forced to wear a black out mask and use noise cancelling headphones.

Whilst ME has been recognised by the medical world for some time, I’ve found that there is very little education within the NHS about its symptoms and treatment. Finding anybody who can help nearby within a short time frame has been a real challenge.

I am fortunate enough to be able to afford limited private assistance, as otherwise we would have been left to wait an incredibly long time for any diagnosis or guidance. Whilst waiting for medical assistance, I have relied on charities like The ME Association and Action for ME, who have both helped me better understand the illness and care for Sarah as best as possible.

I’ll be running the Robin Hood Half Marathon to raise funds for these charities as well as awareness to try and help more people like Sarah in the future.

Anything you can spare will be greatly appreciated.

Love,

James