I was generously given a place to run the Great North Run this week and wanted to use the opportunity to raise money for a charity close to my heart. 

As many of you know my younger brother Paul was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, following years of weight loss, anaemia and fatigue. In the 10 years since his diagnosis he's benefitted from life-changing medical advances, and with biologic therapies he's achieved incredible things. Last year he graduated with a Master's in statistics, he lives a great life in Manchester and is the most amazing runner (really he should be the one doing GNR...). Of course there's been plenty of downs too: scans, medication changes and race days he was unable to compete, but he's always continued through everything and I am the proudest big sister out there.

Unfortunately many families haven't had the same experience as us. We have loved ones who have undergone multiple surgeries, had sections of bowel removed and learned to take care of a stoma bag. These surgeries carry huge risks meaning Crohn's disease can be fatal.

The work of Crohn's and Colitis UK does so much for patients and their families from providing information at all stages of disease, to funding pioneering research and campaigning for increased awareness and rights for people living with disability because of their Crohn's or Colitis.

There is currently no cure for Crohn's Disease, so please donate today so Crohn's and Colitis UK can continue funding research to keep improving treatments and get us closer to the day that cure is developed. Anything you can give is massively appreciated and will help me every step of these 21.1km that I am so very undertrained for. 

Thank you!

Emma x

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