Story
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p>WELL, I DID IT - I CONQUERED MOUNT KILIMANJARO!!! It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done and I don't know if I could say it was enjoyable (although some of it was really good as I was with a great group of people who encouraged each other) but it was certainly an experience. Looking at the amount of money that people have kindly donated - it makes it all worthwhile and it is something I will never forget. I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart that you have made this possible. Please read on as to my reasons why I took this challenge on.</p>
<p>People think I am mad wanting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for my 50th Birthday, why not a party or a holiday they ask, but I strongly believe in doing something special for it and I cannot think of anything more special than raising money for Crohn's and Colitis UK. Why have I chosen this charity? Well, my inspiration is my Mum and my youngest son, David.</p>
<p>David was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 13 years. He went from a fit, active and healthy teenager to a very sick and withdrawn shadow of himself within 18 months which resulted in major surgery. I am happy to say he is in remission just now and is leading a normal life but Crohn's is a chronic illness which means it can re-occur at anytime and he will be on medication for the rest of his life. UPDATE: David is going to Aberdeen University to study Medicine in September!</p>
<p>Mum was diagnosed in her early 40's and fought it all her life, sadly she passed away a couple of years ago.</p>
<p>Crohn's & Colitis UK (it was originally named NACC, National Association for Colitis & Crohn's Disease) not only helps people suffering from Crohn's and Colitis, but their families too, in giving support, advice, raising awareness, financial help when needed and keeping us informed of latest developments from their research facilities. In fact, when David was first diagnosed the information they supplied was invaluable to us. NACC was formed 30 years ago and has helped a lot of people in that time, so please give generously.</p>
<p>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 the charity 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 charity.</p>
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