I was diagnosed with ME amongst other conditions in 2018. However, it is possible that I have had ME for 22 years since having severe glandular fever as a teenager. Throughout my life I have always picked up colds and flu more than anyone I know. In September last year I had a major relapse and my symptoms pointed to it being a stroke. Thankfully it wasn't but this was the start of my diagnosis of ME. It is a condition that I am likely to have for the rest of my life. I have severe fatigue, muscle pain and weakness, I use crutches to walk as I've now developed tendonitis in both heels, I catch every cold and infection around, and my headaches confine me to bed when they attack. Saying all that, I know there are people who have a more severe form of ME so I actually feel quite lucky. 

I plan to walk around Pontefract racecourse, 2 of the 3.1 miles, with my family their for support. I may need rest breaks but I am determined to do this to raise awareness and much need funds for ME Research UK. Please support me. Rachael xxx

A note from ME Research UK:

"....doctors do not treat us and science does not study us. How could a disease this common and this devastating have been forgotten by medicine?" Jennifer Brea. ME Research UK believes that only biomedical research can find the causes of ME/CFS, improve diagnosis and treatment, and, ultimately, arrive at a cure. That’s why research is our focus. We've awarded 43 grants since 2000 and invested over £1.4 million. But research is expensive and becoming more so every day. That’s the challenge we face, and that’s why we need your help.