Guten Tag ... : )

Thanks for taking the time to visit my fundraising website!

As many of you will know by now (I've been boring you with my training stories) in January this year I have resolved and registered to participate in the London Triathlon on 2 August 2009 -  and this time I'm going to do it!

Apart from being just a little bit competitive and wanting a real challenge; what keeps me going (to the pool, on the bike, up the canal for yet another run...) is the charity which I'm raising funds for.. a cause very close to my heart.

More than 5 years ago I have been diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis, a systemic auto-immune condition, which causes the immune system to attack cartilage and tendons of smaller joints which then get imflamed and ultimately destroyed, and  progressing steadily from there.. (read more about it ..)

No cure has been found for this painful, irreversably destructive disease, which comes in many different forms - and is commonly misconceived as only affecting the elderly.

I consider myself very lucky for having the support of friends and family, lots of understanding and open ears... when pain and discomfort interfere just a little too much with everyday life ... and for having been in remission (almost painless) in these recent months.. which is an absolute first since I've been diagnosed! I'm immensely grateful for this, and it gives me that extra motivation to not only finishing it, but maybe even doing a reasonable time!!  ; ) 

YOU can add some extra boost by digging deep and give heartily to my chosen charity, the arthritis research campaign (arc), who are determined to find a cure, not only for 'my' condition, but for all forms of Arthritis - and thus help me to reach my target of £2,000 for this worthwhile cause!!

Also, I'd love for you all to come along, support and cheer me on in two weeks' time...But, as has just been announced last week, I'll have to be in the water by 6.25 and paddling for my life from 6.30 am (the very first wave of the day - well at least I'll get it out of the way early - and it might give me a change to catch a glimpse of all the celebrities competing later on in the day..: ) - it might just be a bit early for a Sunday? If an early rise doesn't faze you, and if you want to be part of the spectacle which is the "Largest Triathlon in the World", here is some information about the Excel Centre in London's east, and how to get there.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to arc and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the arthritis research campaign.

Please help me to make this event count - in more than just the competitive sense.. 

Thank you very much.. and maybe see you there!! ; )

 

Frieda