Hands up if you've heard of Sibo.....anyone, no? Me neither, until this year. After enduring a gruelling few years of health issues and surgeries, I have now thrown this into the mix. SIBO is a serious condition, it stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. It is extremely painful and difficult to manage. Everyday. It's not a condition in and of itself, but what our amazing bodies can do when they are in trouble. Many NHS GPs have never heard of it (which for me is a disappointing continuation of the theme of endometriosis, adenomyosis and surgical menopause - I am ALOT of fun at dinner parties...if they were still a 'thing')

A few months ago I was treated with anti-biotics, which unfortunately failed. My condition worsens. I have fought to get referrals, and have even gone so far as to get my MP on board. I have been given no option than to seek private treatment when I can. I have been in near constant pain since July, and waistbands are but a distant memory.

So. In January I am starting a new line of treatment, and I am feeling rather (very) scared. It's called The Elemental Diet. It's to reset my digestive system and give the poor darling a rest. It's 2 weeks of only predigested (VOM) liquid food sachets, water, and a cup of black tea. 2 weeks. A couple of sachets a day. NO WINE.

I know.

I'm hoping to re frame this in my mind as the ultimate celebrity inspired January detox. That might get me through the first day. So, my ingenious plan is to summon the will power I had back in the 80s when sponsored silences were very popular at school. I think if I know I'm raising money for charity I can do it.

Sibo UK have supported me through all my questions, my despair; a hand to hold through the days of pain. Some (many) that are enduring SIBO have absolutely no private care options. SIBO UK is literally a lifeline. I know, it's Christmas and money is tight, but if you could spare a pound I think it would help keep me going in my 'darker' hours