In June 2022, following a swim in the sea, I was taken into hospital after suffering a Pulmonary Oedema (cold water shock). Having received the all clear from the effects of this, a CT scan showed I had multiple cysts over both my lungs.

Following further tests and scans, it was confirmed in July 2022 that I had Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), which is a very rare, incurable lung disease only found in woman, with just over 400 women diagnosed in the UK and over 2500 in the US! 

Although I hadn't suffered any symptoms, they believe I've had the disease for several years.

In August, I suffered my first Pneumothorax (collapsed lung), which is a common symptom of LAM. Unfortunately, I didn't respond well to the normal treatment, therefore the next step was to have an operation on both lungs called a Pleurodesis. This is a procedure that involves "sticking" my lungs to my chest cavity to stop them from collapsing. This was such a snowball and happened so quick over a matter of days/weeks, it was certainly life changing and life style altering. 

As a result, my lung capacity currently stands at 85% & and over time it will deteriorate as the disease progresses. On a positive front, I need to stay fit, healthy and carry on with my life as normal, cycling, playing netball, gym, live life and let what will be will be.

With LAM being incredibly rare, and the understanding and research evolving with available medicines, it would be great to raise money for LAM to carry on their amazing research to help treat the disease & help find a cure.  

So lets ride on.....

The first challenge is Ride London in May 2023, a 100-mile ride through London, out to Essex and back.

The second super challenge is riding London to Paris in July 2023, 330 miles over 4 days.

Both challenges are extremely daunting, both physically and mentally. The training will be starting from ground zero, but doing it with my fiancé, my rock & cycling buddy Kev, I’m really looking forward to this adventure and to put last year behind me & embrace what is now put in front of me.

Thank you for all your support, any donations will be very  much appreciated, not only by myself but all the women affected by LAM & the LAM action team.

Much Love

Coops

xx