In September I am going to take part in Parallel, an inclusive sporting event for all runners, walkers and wheelchair users. I am going to attempt 10K in my wheelchair. Currently I can get 1.5K unassisted in my wheelchair, so I do have some training to do!

Since the progression of a condition called EDS and the complication of a benign bone tumor (called Fibrous Dysplasia), I have been using a wheelchair on most days to get around. I am hoping that taking part in this event will motivate me to do my physio exercises, raise awareness of EDS and raise some money for an amazing local charity called Wheels for Wellbeing.

What is EDS?

EDS is a rare condition that interferes with how the body produces collagen, an ingredient that is vital for healthy joints and skin. For me it means that my joints swell and are wearing more quickly than they should and my skin bruises very easily. Because of the problems EDS patients have healing, surgery is often avoided, leaving EDS patients with few treatment options. The best treatment for many people with EDS is to build muscle to help protect the joints and maintain a healthy weight. For me and for lots of EDS patients this is really challenging, activities have to be carefully planned, a minor bump or scratch could take weeks to heal and cause irreparable damage to joints.

http://www.ehlers-danlos.org/

Who are Wheels for Wellbeing?

For me one of the hardest things to come to terms with has been giving up dancing, an activity that used to take up hours of my time a week. While talking this through with a friend they suggested that cycling might be a better activity and handed me a leaflet for Wheels for Wellbeing. I was skeptical at first but I knew that I needed to find a new hobby and a new way to keep active so I gave it a go. I was greeted at my first cycle session by a group of helpful volunteers and 20 minutes later, after a few false starts, I found myself comfortably strapped into a recumbent tricycle. The weekly sessions have not only provided much needed exercise, but a social environment that is supportive, non-judgmental and really fun. Last year Wheels for Wellbeing helped more than 1200 disabled people and their carers and families learn to cycle, offering people the opportunity to become more active, improving mental and physical wellbeing.

http://www.wheelsforwellbeing.org.uk/