As most of you are aware, I have lived with ME/CFS for over 6 years since getting Covid 19 at work, working as a registered general nurse.

ME/CFS and Long Covid (diagnosed with both) turned my life upside down 2020. Don't think I could ever explain how vile, terrifying and traumatic these conditions have on the human body. Not for the faint hearted I tell ya!!

One of the most challenging parts we have to face is the lack of understanding, because we 'look so bloody well.' If only people could actually experience what we face daily. They would be shocked in how we manage to keep smiling. We do though, through sheer grit & determination.

Despite this, you'll know that I'm working my socks off towards making a full recovery from both conditions. I hope, one day I can then help others to do the same.

Meanwhile, I'm working on trying to heal a significant knee injury.

However......

I'm walking 'Clougha Pike'. in June 2026.(date to be confirmed). It stands at 413 metre in the Forest of Bowland near Lancaster. I'll be walking a 4.8 mile circular walk with the aid of 2 walking poles and a pack full of my favourite food.

I'd REALLY appreciate a tiny donation, only if you can afford it. No pressure, as I realise that money is tight, for us all. I want to raise awareness more than anything. In hope that one day, these/this mysterious invisible illness can be history for us all.

Here's alittle bit about ME/CFS, if your interested. Appreciate your time reading.

Em x

Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), affects millions worldwide, including an estimated 400,000 people in the UK alone. This debilitating condition is marked by post-exertional malaise — a severe and delayed worsening of symptoms after even minor physical or mental effort. Alongside this, sufferers endure pain, brain fog, and extreme energy limitations that rest cannot alleviate.

ME/CFS predominantly affects women and is often triggered by infections. Despite its widespread impact, the causes remain unknown, and there is currently no diagnostic tests The dedicated ME/CFS research team at the University of Edinburgh is working tirelessly to uncover the genetic roots and potential biomarkers of this complex illness through groundbreaking studies like DecodeME — the largest ME/CFS study in the world — as well as Sequence ME & Long Covid.

By supporting this fundraising effort with a target of £500, you will be directly contributing to pioneering research that aims to unlock the mysteries behind ME/CFS. Your generosity will help us move closer to understanding why people become ill and ultimately finding effective treatments that can transform lives.

Join me on this journey — together we can inspire hope and make a real difference for those living with ME/CFS. Please donate today and help turn determination into discovery. Thank you for your support.