Why I’m Taking On the Longest Golf Day Challenge

At 11 years old, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. What followed were years of hospital appointments, treatments, setbacks, and learning to live with conditions that most people couldn’t see.

When I was 16, I underwent surgery and received a stoma. Like many people facing that prospect, I had concerns about what it would mean for my future. Would I still be able to play sport? Work? Live the life I wanted?

The answer, thankfully, was yes.

Living with a stoma has brought challenges, but it has never defined me. Over the years, I have continued to work, play golf, go for walks, and enjoy life. While there have been difficult days, having a stoma has given me the opportunity to regain my health and continue doing the things I love.

In December 2025, I underwent a stoma refashion operation and I am still recovering. During that recovery, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on my journey and on the support available to people living with a stoma. That support is not just medical—it is practical, emotional, and often life-changing.

That is why I have chosen to support Colostomy UK through my Longest Golf Day Challenge on 18 June 2026.

Colostomy UK provides invaluable support, advice, and advocacy for people living with a stoma, as well as their families, carers, and friends. They work tirelessly to improve understanding of hidden conditions and help ensure that everyone living with a stoma is empowered to reach their full potential.

On 18 June 2026, two close friends and I will take on the challenge of playing 72 holes of golf in a single day. We will also be joined by friends, family, and supporters throughout the day, with people joining us for individual rounds to help make the challenge a real community effort.

This challenge is about more than golf. It is about raising awareness of life with a stoma and challenging some of the misconceptions that still exist. Too many people are unaware of the realities faced by those living with hidden conditions. I want to show that having a stoma does not stop you from working, playing sport, setting goals, or living a full and active life.

A stoma changed my life, but it didn’t stop my life.

By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping Colostomy UK continue its incredible work supporting thousands of people across the UK while also helping to raise awareness and understanding of life with a stoma.

Any donation, no matter the size, would be hugely appreciated and will help make a real difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting our challenge.

Chris