Hi, I'm Dan and I'm living with CRPS.

CRPS - or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (also known as RSD, or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) - is a disorder affecting parts of the body which is characterised primarily by severe pain. Other symptoms include pathological changes to bones, joints and skin, excessive sweating, swelling, and hypersensitivity to even the lightest touch.

CRPS is the most painful condition known to man. On the McGill Pain index, it ranks higher than childbirth and amputation. There is no cure. It is often dubbed "the suicide disease" because the agony it causes can literally be unbearable.

I developed CRPS due to complications arising from surgery to replace both of my hips. I have been through some very rough episodes, and I still get flare ups that make even getting out of bed impossible. I was lucky that I was diagnosed early on and now my condition is pretty well managed. I still get pain on a daily basis, but I'm able to lead a fairly normal existence.

Other people aren't so lucky. Some face amputations, others rely on wheelchairs, and others still are confined to indefinite bedrest. As I said, sadly some sufferers are in so much pain that they see suicide as their only escape.

CRPS is still poorly understood. Research isn't very well funded and specialist support services are scarce. With your generosity, I hope to change that.

On Sunday 29th July, I will attempt to complete a 30-mile sponsored walk from Blackpool Tower to Darwen Tower in under 10 hours.My goal is to raise at least £1,000 which will be divided equally between the following entities:

1. Burning Nights CRPS, a UK charity that does amazing work supporting patients with this horrific illness. They receive no government funding. Their registered charity number is 1166522. Their website is www.burningnightscrps.org

2. CRPS Forum, an online community where CRPS patients and advocates can offer help and advice. Please visit www.crpsforum.com

Every little helps. Thank you.