This summer, I will be competing in two triathlons (Olympic 12th June and Sprint 2nd July) and wanted to raise as much money as possible for Action M.E in support of my dear friend Meli Daniel who was diagnosed two years ago.

M.E. is a collection of symptoms including prolonged exhaustion, allergies, and cognitive difficulties. Most suffering can barely function daily, and there are minimal medical treatments for those affected by this illness. I have seen first-hand the effect this has on someone close to my life, and I want to support others in need this summer by participating in these three events.

From Meli: 

I have been suffering from ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) for almost 2 years. This is an illness which is extremely under researched and there are still so many mysteries surrounding it. There is no current cure for the condition. Therefore the path to recovery is difficult and slow. I am still trying many different things to reach a healthy, pain-free place. It is estimated that around 250,000 people in the UK suffer from the condition and millions of people suffer worldwide. People with the condition are known as ‘The Missing Millions’, as many people are bed-bound for years, unable to participate in society. The side effects that I have found include; chronic tiredness (that not even sleep helps), daily migraines or headaches, chronic body aches and pains, light/noise sensitivity, an elevated heart rate, brain fog and memory issues. However, there are many more possible symptoms and everyone’s experience is different. I feel grateful that I am now at a point where I can go about my day-to-day in a less limiting way than a year ago. Although I still have to be very careful, half an hour too much of activity can lead to two days in bed. It is a very fragile and unpredictable condition but I am very lucky to be progressing. Unfortunately, some people do not make progress with recovery or it takes them years and this is why it is important that we raise awareness about the condition and try to help each other. Recovery can depend almost entirely on your resources, if you have the privilege to be able to pay to try different treatments and speak to the correct professionals you can progress, otherwise it can be extremely difficult. It is important to mention that most ME/CFS patients are unable to work so have no means to earn money to help them recover. This is why a charity like Action for ME is so important to offer people the support they need. I am extremely grateful to Rachel for raising money for this cause which is obviously very close to my heart. My biggest wish is for anyone else who has the condition to find support and reach recovery as soon as possible, Rachel is making this possible. Thank you so much.

From Action M.E. We aim to end the ignorance, injustice and neglect experienced by children and adults with M.E.We're working to ensure children, young people, adults and families living with the illness are supported during this unprecedented time and beyond. Our dedicated team is here for anyone living with, or supporting someone with, M.E. of any age, anywhere in the UK.

Any donations would be greatly appreciated!

https://www.actionforme.org.uk/