I am taking part in Colostomy UK's 'Stoma 66 Challenge!'

'Stoma 66' is all about encouraging people who have had stoma surgery to get active for 66 days and help achieve a combined target of 66,000km.

Research shows that it take on average of 66 days to form a lasting habit.  

For me, the past year (since Shazza the stoma was born on September 12th 2018) has been about recovery, getting back to work and spending time with my loved ones.  It's been a bumpy ride, with ups and downs, but one year on, I'm finally in a place where I feel able to concentrate on getting fitter and healthier to enable me to deal with whatever my future has to offer - Including stoma reversal surgery at some point.  I'm currently very unfit and keen to improve my fitness levels - Setting myself a challenge, will help me stay motivated, all whilst raising money for Colostomy UK so they can continue to support people living with stoma's.

I consider myself very lucky - The support I received from my loved ones, family, friends and workplace was incredible - But not everyone is as lucky as I am.  That's where Colostomy UK come into it!

Colostomy UK is a national charity that offers support an advice to people with stomas and to their families, carers and friends. Colostomy UK also campaigns and acts as advocates for ostomates on the many issues they face going about their daily lives. We want hidden conditions to be understood and accepted by all. Our vision is of communities in which everyone is empowered to reach their potential.

To contribute to Stoma 66 I will be wearing a pedometer every day and aim to walk 10,000 steps daily for 66 days, starting on 16th September and ending 20th November.  Thats 66,000 steps (312 miles/503km).  

I will be sending my data through to Colostomy UK and updating my page regularly.

Within this I will also be undertaking the couch to 5k training (using the NHS app) and by the end of the challenge, I aim to be able to complete a park run. This might not sound much but at the moment I can barely walk up a flight of stairs without panting!

SO if you'd like to support me on my 'fitness journey' all whilst raising valuable funds for Colostomy UK, it would be very much appreciated 

Lots of Love, Vic xXx