My name is Milly, I am 27, and have suffered 7 strokes and a venous sinus thrombosis. Which I now know were caused by Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS). 

APS is an autoimmune condition in which there is an increased tendency for the blood to clot. The condition can cause strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary emboli and DVTs. In pregnancy, APS is a leading cause of recurrent miscarriage and stillbirth. As well as causing other lower grade symptoms, including; headaches, migraines, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties, dizziness and balance issues, fatigue and joint pain.  The disease if often accompanied by other autoimmune conditions.

APS is a rare disease and is relatively new in medical terms. Which meant in my case, the path to diagnosis was long, 5 years after my first clot and after having a multitude of other tests. Specialists are few and far between, making management even more difficult. There is currently no treatment to suppress the disease, so management is aimed at thinning the blood. Which presents a whole host of challenges. Therefore, much more research is needed until we can learn more about the causes, effects and treatments

My best friend Mali has seen first hand how difficult of a disease APS is to live with and manage, not to mention the devastating consequences it can cause. SO, like the absolute super human she is, Mali is raising money for APS Support UK by taking on the challenge of all challenges … Iron Man Tenby! 

Your donations would be much appreciated to motivate Mali to accomplish the Iron Man Course of 3.9km swim, 180km cycle, followed by marathon (42.2km Run). With all the proceeds going to APS Support UK. The only UK based charity dedicated to supporting anyone affected by APS. They aim to achieve earlier diagnosis and better treatment by raising awareness of the condition and helping fund vital research.