In April 2027, I’ll be running the TCS London Marathon for Mitrofanoff Support, a charity that is very close to me personally.

I’ve lived with a Mitrofanoff since I was six years old, following treatment for Rhabdomyosarcoma. When I was 18 months old, I had my bladder removed and was given a urostomy, meaning I had to wear an external bag. At six, I had surgery to create a neobladder and Mitrofanoff. This meant I no longer needed an external bag and could instead catheterise which changed my life.

For the last 30 years, catheterising has been part of my everyday life. Whether I’m at work, travelling, exercising or simply planning a day out, it’s something I’ve always had to consider. It is now second nature to me.

Over the years, I’ve continued to have operations because of complications, and in the last few years two of these procedures resulted in serious complications, including sepsis and an ileus. Both required month-long hospital stays.

Although catheterising has become part of my normal routine, those experiences have reminded me that living with a Mitrofanoff is lifelong and that there can always be unexpected challenges.

As an adult, I’ve attended Mitrofanoff Support days in both Walsall and London and have found them so valuable. Meeting other people who understand what it’s like to live with a Mitrofanoff has made me appreciate how important that support and sense of community can be.

Growing up, I didn’t know anyone else with a Mitrofanoff, I felt embarrased and would try to hide it. Now in my 30's I wish I hadnt felt that shame and I know I’d have been more confident if I had been able to meet other people who had been through the same experience.

That’s a big part of why I wanted to run the London Marathon for Mitrofanoff Support. It gives me the chance to challenge myself while also giving something back to a charity that means a lot to me.

I’d be really grateful for any donation, however small, to help me reach my fundraising target and support the work Mitrofanoff Support does for children and adults living with a Mitrofanoff.

Thank you for supporting me 😀