So, this is happening! A long-term dream to run the TCS London Marathon, supporting a charity very close to my heart – roll on 27th April 2025!

My story begins back in 2013 when after lots of tests, cameras and biopsies, I was finally diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. It was such a relief to finally have a diagnosis and to start on a treatment plan. However, once the elation wore off, I realised I had absolutely no idea what UC was and how it might affect my life!

Next step was ‘Dr Google’! After scaring myself witless, I stumbled across Crohn’s and Colitis UK… finally a voice of reason and information I could depend on. It was also very reassuring to read other people’s stories and understand more about was I was facing.

Right now, over 500,000 people in the UK are living with Crohn’s and Colitis – a lifelong disease, which many people have never heard of. And the real number could be almost double that.

Because of the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding these diseases, thousands of people are suffering in silence.

Crohn’s and Colitis UK are the UK’s leading charity, working to improve diagnosis and treatment, and to fund research into a cure; to raise awareness and to give people hope, comfort and confidence to live freer, fuller lives.

The last 12 years have seen some ups and downs, but I am now in remission (despite the odd flare up), which is a huge relief.

Most people reading this will know of my love of running. I belong to a fantastic, supportive running club, Riverside Rebels, and over the years have seen many of my fabulous club mates complete the London Marathon, whilst I have been cheering them on…. 2025 is now my turn!

This is an amazing opportunity to test myself both physically and mentally. The thought of achieving something like running a marathon will be a life changing accomplishment - it will remind me that I am capable of doing anything I put my mind to!

Supporting Crohn’s and Colitis UK is such an honour. It would help me feel like I am giving back to a charity that provided me with an essential tool and helped put me on the road to recuperation.

It would mean so much to have your support - whether you're able to donate or simply share this fundraiser. It will go a long way in not only raising awareness but helping Crohn's and Colitis UK continue to campaign to get better support for those who live with these conditions.

Thanks for reading,

Sandra x