Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

This year, I'm taking part in the Bupa Great South Run in Portsmouth. I had thought that I would be better off running simply for myself, but I have now decided that this is an excellent opportunity to showcase a fairly unknown charity who have really helped me over the past few years.

I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in 2004. The syndrome has wide-ranging symptoms, from acne and difficulty losing weight, to irregular ovulation and infertility. The condition has been linked to other health risks, such as heart disease, diabetes and depression. There is currently no 'cure' for the syndrome, simply medical treatments to help manage the symptoms.

Verity was set up in 1997 to help women who have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovaroies (PCO) and its less common syndrome (PCOS). The charity is run by a dedicated board of trustees and a team of volunteers. They organise twice-yearly conferences, produce a wide range of information booklets and ensures that the results of research on the condition are readily available. I was lucky enough to find this charity soon after my diagnosis, and the conferences they run and resources they produce have been invaluble.

Please give as much as you feel able to for this great charity - 10 miles doesn't look that far on a map, but I'm definitely a girl who was built for comfort, not for speed!