Having been diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome in 2013, which resulted in paralysis and hospitalisation for 3 months, I was one of the ones fortunate to overcome this debilitating illness. On discharge from hospital I spent the next 3 months in a wheelchair and then over the period of the next year I learned to walk again, first with the aid of crutches and then onto walking sticks.

Having started running in 2010 I was determined to get back to it and with a lot of hard work, persistence and sheer bloody mindedness I completed my first half marathon post GBS in 2015. Having successfully completed 2 marathons and other long distance events in the last few years I was looking for a new challenge. 

Last year I had to have some time off from running having been diagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis. It turned out to be a long 10 months so I needed to look at another activity to maintain some fitness. I decided swimming could be an option but unfortunately I hadn't swam since school days! So off I went to the leisure centre and I taught myself to swim. Once I became proficient I went open water swimming and loved it! This then set a seed! 

Having watched the Brownlee brothers on TV over the last few years they inspired me to try a triathlon. Deciding to head straight for the deep end (excuse the pun!) I entered Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire. Why not? I can swim now, I can ride a bike and finally my plantar fasciitis is manageable. I have trained hard and respect the challenge I have set myself. Let's do this!!

I am passionate about GAIN Charity as they helped me and my family through some tough times, providing support when necessary. They also continue to raise awareness and support research into these conditions. 

Thank you for your support. 

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare autoimmune condition affecting the peripheral nervous system, usually leading to temporary or long-term paralysis. Around 80% of those with GBS will make a good recovery, but between 5-10% of people will not survive and the other 10-15% may be left with severe mobility or dexterity issues. GAIN helps people understand and manage both acute and chronic variants of the syndrome, raises awareness, and promotes clinical and non-clinical research into these conditions. For more info visit www.gaincharity.org.uk