We are a group of best friends, Ali, Jen & Jo who are embarking on an 'Ultra Challenge'. On the 22nd June 2024 we will.be walking 53km (31 miles) through the Cotswolds. We have been friends for over 25 years and are taking on the challenge for Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis. This charity is extremely close to our hearts as Jen's Dad was sadly diagnosed with this terminal illness & sadly passed away in 2022. Here's her family's story:

My Dad was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in 2019 just prior to the beginning of the covid pandemic. We had never heard of the illness before or had any idea what lay ahead.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a respiratory illness that causes scarring of the lungs. It affects breathing & eventually the lungs can no longer function & the body shuts down. This is a terminal illness of which there is no cure, only treatment to prolong life & only a small percentage of sufferers will respond well to them. Prognosis is between 2-5 years.

After Dad's diagnosis in 2019 he remained stable for the next 2 years however, his health started to deteriorate rapidly In December 2021. He was incredibly brave & strong throughout but sadly lost his battle on the 19th September 2022.

My dad was an incredible person who loved life & lived it to the fullest. He adored his family & was desperate to meet his grandson who was born only 3 weeks after his death & named Christopher in his honour.

Dad was told to walk as much as possible to help him with his condition. He loved to walk so now we are walking in his memory to raise as much money as possible for others who are diagnosed with this condition. Research & support are desperately needed for sufferers & their families.

APF is needed now more than ever, and the charity is continuing to operate through the Covid-19 pandemic. Vital research into pulmonary fibrosis is continuing, and the charity is adapting its services to ensure patients and families can access information and support when they need it the most.

I am fundraising for APF to help ensure nobody has to face pulmonary fibrosis alone during this challenging and uncertain time. Any support you can give will help APF continue to be there for anyone affected by pulmonary fibrosis.

For more information about APF please visit www.actionpf.org