Crohn’s Disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system or gut. Crohn’s can affect any part of the gut, though the most common area affected is the end of the ileum (the last part of the small intestine), or the colon. Crohn’s Disease affects at least 115,000 people in the UK and millions more worldwide. To find out more, visit https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk

Diagnosed with Crohn's Disease at 15, I never realised how much of an impact it would have on my life. The following is a link to a post I wrote while recovering in hospital back in November 2016. It explains my history with the condition and I urge you to give it a read if you have not already.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10211835844520366&set=o.164153473610717&type=3&theater

Since then, I have been in the best health of my adult life. While this lasts, I want to do my best to raise awareness of this invisible illness and help raise money for a charity which helps those diagnosed and funds vital research. I thought it was a good time to get myself back to a good level of fitness, so the Great North Run is an excellent chance to do all of these things! I am not a runner, I have just started running each week and have just completed my first 10k (with some walking stints..) in 1h6m21s so I am looking forward to push myself with this challenge!

I want to become an example to patients new to having an ostomy that it does not limit you in what you want to achieve! Since having an ostomy; I have climbed Kilimanjaro, spent 2 months in Japan, swam in lakes in Thailand, played Ice Hockey on a regular basis, manage a full time job and never turn down an opportunity. All it takes is a bit of self awareness and planning. 

Thank you for reading, as this is an illness that affects my daily life, as well as the lives of many others, research into Crohn's and Colitis is very important to me. Please help contribute by sponsoring me doing this run! 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.