Hi all,

I have decided to run the Royal Parks Half Marathon this year in honour of a charity very close to my heart - Coeliac UK.

As many of you know, I suffer from Coeliac disease. This disease is an autoimmue disorder caused by the protein ‘gluten’. In the last few years, ‘gluten’ has become somewhat of a buzzword in the health world which has drawn attention away from the fact that for 1% of the population, even the smallest amount of this protein can cause severe damage to the intestines. There is no cure for Coeliac disease and only an extremely strict, life long, gluten free diet can prevent symptoms.

Many of you have seen me suffer since my diagnosis in 2011, and the many ups and downs I have had since. It’s been really tough at times… and even now, I face running the race with only 2% of the iron of a "normal" person. Although my symptoms are under control, it comes with its fair share of complications – something as small as a breadcrumb can trigger my immune system to fire up and start a riot – and I would be lying if I said I wasn’t scared about the future. The risks include osteoporosis, diminished fertility, increased cancer risk and the development of other autoimmune diseases inc diabetes.

Coeliac UK make my life that little bit easier by certifying safe places to eat, fighting to keep prescription food and bringing together people who otherwise may feel alone. Please help me support the great work that Coeliac UK do, to make the lives for all of those affected just a bit more manageable.

THANK YOU! XXX