This is the first of my Six at 60 challenges, set by my lovely friend
Claire, I’m doing Couch to 5k for the GAIN campaign in May to raise
awareness.

Claire is my inspiration, she is in recovery from CIDP or Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) which is a slowly developing autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the myelin that insulates and protects your body's nerves. The exact cause is not known. Common symptoms include gradual weakness or sensation changes in the limbs, but can develop into paralysis including the legs, arms and face, and can even affect the ability to swallow, blink and speak. 

In 2019 Claire developed SEVERE CIPD symptoms and spent the best part of a year in hospital, having lost the use of her arms and legs.  Through her tenacity and positive mindset she is on the way to recovery, but it has been a long and difficult process.

Anything you can give is much appreciated, to help increase awareness and support those suffering from these conditions.  

The following is from GAIN:

Raising awareness of a rare disease is never easy. Everyone knows someone affected by stroke, cancer or dementia, and we've all heard of the big charities that do fantastic work to help people with these conditions. But until someone you know is affected by Guillain-Barré syndrome or CIDP, chances are that you've never heard of it before.That's where GAIN comes in, providing information and support when it is needed most. It's really important that people know there is help available if they have been recently-diagnosed with GBS or CIDP. And that's where you come in. Your donation could pay towards leaflets and information packs for hospitals and surgeries throughout the UK and Ireland, signposting patients and their families to the help and support offered by GAIN. It could pay for a communication aid, or travel expenses during months of daily hospital visits. Your donation means that GAIN will continue to be there when they are needed. Thank you x