I’m Josh (Rookie), and in 2024, I'm running the TLS London Marathon with a mission: to raise awareness for Crohn's and Colitis, with a specific focus on Stoma Awareness.

I know first hand the challenges of severe Crohn's disease - it’s a condition that has led to numerous hospital stays over the years.

In August 2021, during an intense flare-up, I was admitted to hospital. The doctors delivered a sobering message, explaining that without immediate surgery and the installation of a temporary Ostomy, my prospects for making it into the new year looked bleak. This news was a harsh reality, and I was startled by the lack of information available, especially for younger patients.

Unfortunately, my initial surgery was not successful, and after 18 months of recovery, my bowel continued to struggle to heal. This year, I underwent another surgery to have a permanent Stoma bag fitted. In the weeks that followed, I had to deal with a whirlwind of emotions – anger, embarrassment, disappointment among others. Support seemed scarce, all that I could hear were all the limitations and changes I'd have to contend with.

I'm running the marathon to:

- Raise awareness and offer support to others who find themselves in similar situations, to let them know that life doesn't have to change and shouldn't limit their aspirations.

- Shine a light on the 13.5 million people worldwide who have a Stoma (1 in 1000 people) and demonstrate that they can lead fulfilling lives.

- Prove to myself and others that having a Stoma doesn't prevent me from living a normal life and, even with a Stoma, I can be one of the 0.17% of people who complete a marathon – and a mere 0.000017% with a Stoma! ;)

Because I love challenges, I have set my sights on breaking the Guinness World Record for a marathon run by someone with a Stoma, currently held by Adele Roberts at 3:30.22 in 2023.

I'm determined to try and beat this record, I'm going to need all the support I can get to make it happen. So please join me by contributing, providing advice if you're an experienced marathon runner or joining in with my training.

Thank you for your support!

Josh