Please help me raise a load of cash for Crohn's and Colitis UK. Eighteen months ago I began suffering a series of infections which culminated in a big operation last September. The cause was Crohn's disease. I am now almost fully recovered from the op (but not Crohn's), and am busy building my fitness.

During this time I received advice and support from this charity, who are involved in research as well as supporting people like me with inflammatory bowel diseases.

All in all, a humbling experience.

I am going to attempt the 190 mile coast to coast walk in April, with a view to raising as much as possible through sponsorship. I have decided to do this through the website JustGiving. Your contribution would be much appreciated.

Those of you who know me will perhaps agree that my lifestyle, particularly diet and exercise, should have guarded me against such debilitating illnesses. I was hoping to be immortal, but apparently not! Doesn't half make you look at life differently.

I can be contacted:

E-mail: gjcarlisle@hotmail.co.uk

Mobile: 07952320397

Anybody wishing to join me at any stage would be most welcome. I will be setting off from St Bees in Cumbria on Friday 4th April, hoping to arrive in Robin Hood's Bay about 15th/16th April.