Crohn's & Colitis UK are the UK's leading charity for Crohn's and Colitis. Currently over 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong disease that many people have never heard of. This year marks 10 years since I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 2013. It has impacted my life throughout this time (mostly when in flare-ups), but also even when 'well' adjusting to taking daily medications, regular blood tests, hospital appointments and diet and lifestyle changes. In 2020 I had my 3 worst flareups so far and 3 rounds of steroids before starting my immunosuppressant medicine. 

I have often used running to try to help my symptoms, although usually only short distances up to 5K! I have never run further than 10k so it's a massive step to take on my first ever Half Marathon (21KM!), but this has been a goal I have been wanting to work towards for quite a while. I can't think of a better way to mark my 10 year milestone (and hopefully my body will stay out of flares)! I will be taking part in the 2023 Royal Parks Half Marathon to support Crohn's & Colitis UK. This amazing charity offers immeasurable support both physically and mentally and has helped me consistently in the last decade.  Your donation can help Crohn's & Colitis UK's mission to improve diagnosis and treatment; raise awareness, and fund research to one day find a cure.