Addison’s disease is a rare, potentially fatal condition where unfortunately, the adrenal glands have stop working properly. Patients require life-long, daily treatment with replacement steroid hormones. However, with the right balance of daily medication, people can expect to have a normal life span and to lead full and productive lives. 

The problem is that many people may not realise they are suffering from this condition and in the extreme situation, an 'addison crisis' can occur. These are the symptoms that can be shown:

Sudden penetrating pain in the legs, lower back or abdomen
Confusion, psychosis, slurred speech
Severe lethargy
Convulsions
Fever
Hyperkalemia 
Hypercalcemia 
Hypoglycemia 
Hyponatremia 
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Hypothyroid (low T4 level)
Severe vomiting and diarrhea, resulting in dehydration
Syncope (loss of consciousness and ability to stand)

The addison Disease Self Help Group has been set up to make people aware of this condition (and hopefully aid prompt diagnosis) and to support people diagnosed with this condition.

I hope by competing in this Ironman I will be able to raise awareness of this condition and enable Addison's Disease Self Help to continue their invaluable work and research.