The ROS says: Few people really understand what osteoporosis is. Even fewer understand the true extent of the impact it has on lives; robbing those affected of self-confidence, reducing independence and making everyday activities a challenge.

I say: those who know me are used to me challenging myself mentally, but this year I want to do something which is physically challenging and raises funds for the ROS at the same time. The specialist nurses there with whom you can talk for no cost helped me when I was shocked by the initial diagnosis, and again later when scans showed deterioriation, and I had to change medication.

Although younger women and some men can get osteoporosis, it's known as an old woman's disease - so not always on people's radar, and not figuring highly for research funding. I hope to change that for the better. I have to raise at least £200 for the reduced fee I paid to register for the event, but I'd love to raise more.

Thank you for reading, and if you are financially able, please donate whatever you can afford. And beam out best wishes for my training - I will need them!

February update: look what arrived just now from ROS! I'm hoping my leaping hare cushion will help.