Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

You may or may not know I was diagnosed with APS (antiphospholipid syndrome) in 2013 after I developed a blood clot.  I was lucky that my diagnosis was relatively quick, and I have received excellent treatment which means I can continue to live a full and active life.  I am aware though that many people are not so lucky. 

Since I turned 30 this year I thought I ought to celebrate what I can do and wanted to take this opportunity to raise funds for APS Support UK and to raise awareness of APS.   

APS Support UK is a charity that I have benefited from since being diagnosed as they provide support and information for people living with APS.  They are also working to fund research into and raise awareness of APS.  

To celebrate what I can do I have decided to set myself a challenge! I intend to cycle the length of Wales, Cardiff to Holyhead, self supported.  Then just to make sure I really push myself, on the way I will climb Pen y Fan, Cadir Idris and Snowdon.  I have 9 days to complete it starting 20.07.19 and I promise I will try my very best!

In case you are the sort of person who likes facts: on average diagnosis of APS takes 3 years despite it causing approximately 15% of strokes, heart attacks and DVTs in under 50s.  In pregnancy APS is the most important, treatable cause of recurrent miscarriage.  There is still a need to raise awareness of APS in the medical community and to improve diagnosis.  Research is still needed in order to improve treatments which generally include taking anticoagulants.  

I hope you will join me in supporting this cause and literally join me if you can!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.