Last October, I unexpectedly ended up in hospital only to begin an excruciatingly long and painful investigative journey into what could be the cause of the thrombocytopenia (low platelet counts). After months of tests, we reached a confirmed diagnosis last month of it being a condition called ITP.

ITP (idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys platelets, responsible for clotting, in the blood. To provide some perspective, the average adults has between 150-400k platelets in their blood. I had just 8k, and had absolutely no idea. Minus the physical manifestation of the condition in bruising and petechiae, someone with ITP will appear well otherwise (as I am constantly told 'but you look so well?') however an ITP patient struggles with waves of immense fatigue and undesirable side effects from the meds. Generally it's the mental anguish and anxiety of the constant checking of your platelet levels and its associated uncertainty and the resulting medical management that is the hardest part. 

There are approximately only 3000-4000 ITP patients at a time in the UK and the lines of treatment available are extremely limited. Furthermore, it would be ideal if there was a way to directly diagnose the disease rather then via a process of elimination. 

My journey has been challenging, both mentally and physically, but I have remained resilient for most of the time, with the IMMENSE support of my family and friends. In turn, I felt an actual mountain climb (permitted by my doctor) would be the most symbolic way to raise both awareness and funds for the research of this rare autoimmune condition. 

Whilst the notion of me climbing the tallest mountain in the UK is a bit left-field, considering my fear of heights (Arthur's Seat made me nervous & I close my eyes when in the Heron Tower elevator), but I figured a run wouldn't quite cut it! 

This is me making a start raising funding for a rare disease that requires attention  and i’d love your support. Any amount donated will make a difference. If you'd like to climb with me or join us on the 21st in Fort William/Edinburgh for celebratory whisky and fried Mars bars, please message me! Would love more people to join!

Appreciate your support,

Urvashi x

Some links for those of you who may want to know more about ITP and the Platelet Disorder Support Association:

https://www.pdsa.org/adults.html

https://www.pdsa.org/what-is-itp.html

https://pdsa.org/mission/why-we-need-your-help.html

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