In March 2020, I was diagnosed with Axial Spondyloarthritis. And within days, the country went into lockdown. While the world was shutting down, so was my body, and I was told I couldn’t begin the immunosuppressant treatment I needed.

The life I had built around movement, hiking, training, and pushing myself physically, suddenly felt out of reach. Mornings became the hardest part of the day. Getting out of bed was painful. Simple things like putting on socks or walking downstairs felt overwhelming. I didn’t just lose strength, I lost independence, confidence, and a big part of who I was.

What I don’t often say out loud is how much it affected my mental health. Living in constant pain, isolated during lockdown, and unsure when or if treatment would begin took its toll. There were days that felt incredibly dark. Days when I felt trapped in my own body and unable to see the light. Days when I questioned how long I could keep pushing forward.

During that time, when so much felt uncertain, Arthritis UK became a source of reassurance and comfort. Their information helped me understand what was happening to my body. Their resources reminded me I wasn’t alone. When everything felt like it was falling apart, having somewhere reliable to turn made a real difference.

After 5 years of navigating treatments, with plenty of setbacks along the way, I finally started on one that works. Gradually, things began to shift. The pain became manageable. I was able to return to movement and rebuild myself physically and emotionally. Last year I completed 2 triathlons and multiple running events and now, I’m taking on the London Marathon.

For me, this isn’t just about running 26.2 miles. It’s about celebrating how far I’ve come, physically and mentally. It’s about proving that the darkest periods don’t have to define the rest of your story.

I’m running for Arthritis UK because I know first hand how much their support matters. Arthritis affects far more than joints, it affects identity, independence, mental health, and hope. Every donation helps fund research, provide vital information, and support people who may be in the place I once was.

If you’re able to donate, thank you. Truly. Your support will help someone else find light during their hardest days.