This September, I’ll be lacing up my trainers and taking on the Great North Run for the very first time - and I’m running every single step for my Mam.

My Mam lives with fibromyalgia, one of many chronic conditions that affects her every single day. Widespread pain, exhaustion, and a whole host of other symptoms that most people will never see - yet she shows up. Every. Single. Day. She pushes through, she’s present, and she is without doubt the strongest woman I have ever known.

Fibromyalgia is a recognised chronic condition affecting an estimated 2.9–4.7% of the population, causing widespread pain, profound fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, cognitive disturbances, and so much more. It is invisible to most, but very real to those living with it.

I am lucky enough to be able to move my body - through weightlifting, walking, and running - and I never take that for granted. Watching my mam’s daily reality has taught me that movement is a gift, and this race is my way of honouring that.

This will be the longest distance I have ever run. 13.1 miles. My first Great North Run. And every mile will be dedicated to her- and to everyone else fighting chronic illness quietly and bravely every day.

Please donate whatever you can to Fibromyalgia Action UK, a charity supporting thousands of people across the country who are living with this condition.

For my Mam. For everyone like her. Let’s go. 💛