Hello there - thanks for visiting my page and taking the time to read!

Psoriasis is a condition that not many people know about and one which I am directly affected by. I was diagnosed in my early teens and from then have had to deal with the effects that the condition has on many aspects of my life. Due to this, I have decided to fundraise, using my first ever 10k to raise money for the Psoriasis Association which funds research into finding new medications, creates a support network and hopefully one day a cure.

As many people don't know, psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that impacts both the skin and joints where your body attacks healthy skin cells. Skin cells are normally replaced every 28 days but with psoriasis this process only takes a couple of days causing red, flaky patches of skin to form. It affects 2-3% of the population of the UK which is around 1.8 million people and can occur at any age. There are treatments available but currently no cure.

Growing up with psoriasis, I have dealt with people commenting, sideways glances and funny looks which have made me conscious of my skin; even innocent questions from 5  years olds about "why is your skin so ugly" can be pretty difficult to hear! This is especially a problem in the summer months which led me to trying to cover up and avoid situations where I would have to have my skin on display. Running in 20+ degree glorious sun whilst dressed for a Christmas postcard scene can be pretty hot!

Whilst the physical pain can be challenging at times, it is definitely the mental toll which is the hardest for me which is why the Psoriasis Association and the wonderful work they do to bring the community together is so valuable and why I am looking to spread the message and hopefully raise some donations for them.

A shocking 94% of those affected by psoriasis also suffer with anxiety, depression and low self-esteem which is heartbreaking. This means that with the donations you make the Psoriasis Association can further their research which hopefully makes the benefits far reaching. And - good deed done!

The ASICS London 10k I am doing is a race around central London which will challenge me physically but honestly having my skin on show is what I am most nervous about! It will be my first time doing this and any sponsorship that you can donate will mean a lot to me and so many others.

Thank you, Jenny xx