Like all great ideas, this one came to me around about one in the morning after i'd had half a bottle (or two) of wine.

 

Now, I've not run since they made us do it across freezing fields in our gym knickers in school. (Though, luckily, I had asthma, and was pretty good at acting, so most of the time I was the one wrapped in a coat holding a stopwatch.)

 

So what possessed me to think I can run a half marathon, i'm not really sure. I could have done a bike ride. At least I know how to ride one of them. I've never actually owned a pair of trainers. And i'm not entirely sure how to use my feet. But that's what makes it a challenge.

 

Anyway, long story, short story... I sent an email, The British Skin Foundation sent one back, and now i'll be running the Great North Run in September. And  I do intend on running. All the way.

 

Why the British Skin Foundation?

 

Well. Most of you will probably know I suffer from eczema and associates. I have done since I was small. And it's never gone away. Just taken various forms. Like a shit supervillain who keeps trying to make a comeback and take over the world again. 

 

It will always fail. That's thanks to all nurses and doctors who take care of me. And all the things they have given me to keep control of it over the years. The foreign language of skin control. Icthopaste, Synlar C, Dermovate, Betnovate, Ultrabase, PUVA, UVB, Diprobase, Zipzoc, Dermol 500, Cyclosporin, Azathioprine, Mildison Lipocream, Hydrocortisone, Oilatum Plus, Haelan Tape, Betacap....

 

When I go on tour people always wonder why my suitcase is so heavy.That's why. It's because it's jam packed full of stuff to keep my skin on. (And probably more shoes than is necessary...But mainly pharmaceuticals.)

 

Anyway.

 

I think what i'm trying to say is that i'm not the only one. I've been on dermatology wards before. And realised that i'm pretty much okay compared to the things some folk have to go through.

 

The BSF funds important research into all types of skin disease. From diseases like eczema and psoriasis (which are fairly common, but can vary wildly in severity - you or someone you know probably suffers from them) ; to diseases like icthyosis, eb and skin cancers which are rarer, seriously life limiting and can even kill.

 

They also provide a support network for sufferers of skin disease and their families. And aim at breaking down the stigma of having a skin disease. The thing about skin is that it's visible. And the thing about skin disease is that it is hard to hide. And why should you? But you'd be surprised how ignorant and cruel some people can be when confronted by someone with one. Raising awareness of skin conditions is just as important as the research.

 

So...in conclusion...I'll be proud to be wearing the British Skin Foundation vest at The Great North Run.

 

I just have one thing to ask of you....

 

Show me the money.

 

Thank you!

 

(Everything you donate online here goes straight to the British Skin Foudation to fund their continued research. Cheesy as it sounds - it can really make a difference.)

 

From the BSF Website:

"We know that there are about 8 million people in the UK currently living with a skin disease.  It’s the biggest reason why we visit our GP, yet the most challenging aspect, aside from the sheer number of diseases, is the fact that skin disease never stops. Every day that we don’t find a cure for malignant melanoma, another two people aged 15 to 35 will be diagnosed with it in Britain.

Skin disease doesn’t just affect the skin. It can have a huge impact on a person’s day-to-day life, crush self-confidence, restrict their movement, lead to depression and even ruin relationships. At its most severe, it can even kill. It’s an issue that needs to be dealt with, so let’s take skin disease seriously."

(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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate -we raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity)