I was diagnosed with a condition called Wegener's Granulomatosis approximately 3 years ago now. What's that? I hear you ask. It affects about 1 in 30,000 people. Symptoms are due to inflammation that affects body tissue and it is also considered an auto immune condition. There is no known cause; but it is not contagious, and there is no evidence it is hereditary.

Luckily, I was diagnosed with a non agressive version and my treatment, as unpleasant as it was, was less so than other sufferers. A year later, I came off the medication and symptoms cleared. I have remained that way for 18 months now, i.e. in remission.

In return for my good health I wanted to give something back! I contacted my consultant, Professor Chakravarty, who told me about the Vasculitis-Scleroderma Research Foundation (under the BHR umbrella) raising money for research into diseases including Wegeners.

And this is where my challenge comes in! In April 2010, I will be taking part in a 250km Husky sledding trail between Norway and Sweden. I will have my own pack of huskys that will take me across the Arctic, travelling approx. 40km a day, I will be without electricity, toilets, showers and sleeping in a tent in the Arctic for a week and my food will be boil in a bag - most of my friends would say its impossible for me which is why it is such a challenge!

I would really appreciate your support in raising this money for this good cause, there are people out there who aren't as lucky as me and finding the cause, will help with a more permanent cure. Thanks

 

My employer, LCH.Clearnet, has an established Corporate Responsibility programme and as part of this are supporting me in making this happen