I am going to be running a half marathon in February to raise money for the brain injury charity Headway Norfolk and Waveny. This cause is important to me because three years ago I suffered from a bleed on the brain caused by an AVM.

AVM is a rare congenital disorder and it is very dangerous if left untreated. I had an AVM in my cerebellum which burst causing a painful stroke!  My speech and walking were badly affected , however after much neuro-rehabilitation involving speech therapy and physical therapy I was able to speak, walk and even run again! Music, knitting and reading, as well as my supportive family kept me going through this difficult time.

The brain is a very sensitive organ and any damage caused can have long term side effects. Survivors of brain injury can have complex problems affecting their personality, their relationships and their ability to lead an independent life - I know I have had problems with all of these. An estimated 1.7 million people sustain a head injury annually- this is why Headway’s mission to help people recover is so important!

Their network of more than 125 groups and branches across the UK, such as the Norfolk & Waveney branch, provide support and information to brain injury survivors, their families and carers. Please help make sure everyone is able to access the care they need after experiencing something as traumatic as a brain injury by sponsoring my run.