Here is our story:

In August 2000, Abby-Jo, who was seven at the time, was diagnosed with Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH).

AIH is a rare case of long-term hepatitis in which the body’s immune system attacks and damages the liver. There are thought to be around 10,000 people living with autoimmune hepatitis in the UK, and although both men and women can develop the condition, it is more common in young women. It is not currently clear what causes AIH or whether anything can be done to prevent it.

On being diagnosed, Abby-Jo was immediately prescribed a strict medication regime and put under the care of multiple specialists, who monitored her progress on a weekly basis. Though she struggled with the side effects of medication and underwent several procedures - her liver responded well to the medication and over time, her health stabilised.

It’s not always been a smooth ride; she's had flare ups and scares, and carried concerns over the risks associated with having AIH and starting a family - but at each step she has benefited greatly from expert care and a constantly improving body of research that has allowed consultants to best support her.

This would not be possible without pioneering research, supported by the Medical Research Foundation, who have invested £3.8 million to fund vital new research Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH). They continue to fund cutting edge research which could lead to new breakthroughs in detecting and treating this disease - in turn helping to lengthen and improve the lives of those living with this disease

With that in mind ,we as a group will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in July, 2022 to raise money for the Medical Research Foundation’s research, specifically into Autoimmune Heptatitis.

Any donation you can give will be much appreciated – and the money we raise will be our driving motivation to reach the summit of the highest mountain in Africa and fly the flag of the Medical Research Foundation.