Below is a message from our Managing Director, Kenneth Godsman, whose family have been directly impacted by colitis. 

My son Murray was diagnosed with colitis at the age of 18. Until then our family knew nothing about colitis and the horrible debilitating symptoms that come along with it. After three long years of flare ups, different medications, tests and hospital stays it became apparent that the best course of action for Murray was to have his colon removed and replaced with a stoma. Murray has bounced back since his surgery, has adjusted to life with a stoma and is slowly getting back to a level of fitness he enjoyed before all this kicked off. We are all very proud of how Murray has handled this challenge in his life, but we would like to do something to help others avoid having to face the same difficulties. 

If you have been following along, you will know that we were due to sponsor our family friend Beki in the Cork Ironman later this year. After a few weeks of training, Beki has unfortunately had to withdraw from competition. As this is an important cause, we are determined to continue raising money and spreading awareness by completing a challenge that is anything but easy. Murray’s sister Carla has stepped in and will be participating in the October Tough Mudder, Manchester. 

She said: “I wish I had the stamina to complete an Ironman, but it is probably for the best I sit out on that one! I have decided to participate in a Tough Mudder as they are designed with the goal of overcoming obstacles and completing the course. Over half a million people in the UK are living with crohn’s or colitis, and watching someone you love go through such a difficult diagnosis is saddening. Although I can't emulate the pain those are suffering, I feel it is appropriate I partake in an event that forces me to be challenged both mentally and physically, representing the daily struggle of this life changing disease."

Crohn’s and Colitis UK are constantly researching to find ways to manage and control symptoms to ensure that others live comfortably with this condition. Their ultimate aim is to find a cure. The charity offers support to those who are diagnosed and their families. 

We chose £1,979 as our fundraising target because the charity was founded in 1979. Since then, progress has been made but there is still a long way to go. Any donation will help make a difference! 

Ken Godsman

https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/