I am running the Great South, not only in aid of CLIMB, but also to raise awareness of a collection of rare diseases known as lipodystrophy. CLIMB has been a phenomenal support to patients in the lipodystrophy community in seeking out and providing information for this condition. They provide this exceptional support to patients who have been diagnosed with other rare metabolic diseases too. In doing so, they are a listening ear to worried Moms and Dads who may not know what to do, and reassurance to patients who are facing their diagnosis. It is an honor to represent this charity, and cannot thank them enough for allowing me to run for them.

Lipodystrophy comes in a number of variations - acquired vs genetic, and partial vs generalized. Of these combinations, I have Congenital Generalized Lipodystrophy (also known as Berardinelli-Seip Syndrome) and was diagnosed in my late teens after being misdiagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. Thanks to the ongoing research at the Severe Insulin Resistance Clinic in Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, and the National Institute of Health in Washington DC, there is not only a treatment for CGL but greater knowledge of these diseases. At present, there is no cure.

With any of the forms of lipodystrophy, there are physical changes in body appearance and metabolic complications requiring tight monitoring of blood sugars, triglycerides, etc. For myself, I have faced unwanted negative attention which has lead to insecurities about my body. I am proud to be part of the lipodystrophy community. They are strong people, and motivate me to be proud of my body. It is an honor to represent them during the Great South Run.

If you would like to know more about the different variations of lipodystrophy, then I would encourage you to take a look at this website: http://www.lipodystrophy.co.uk/ .

"Be Kinder Than Necessary, for Everyone You Meet is Fighting Some Kind of Battle" - Unknown

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