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Hi everyone. Thank you for reading .

I have been recently diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition after weeks of investigations. It’s rare but treatable. So after 27 working as a paediatric nurse in lots of different setting I sit on the other side of the amazing NHS which has supported me to diagnosis and now full steam ahead with positive thoughts and a clear treatment plan to get back to good health.

I have worked many roles but the opportunity to work as the Three Ells Childrens Palliative care nurse in Dorset County Hospital was one of the most privileged and rewarding times in my nursing life. . I may have left 8 yrs ago but it has continued to be a part of my life . Been alongside families for end of life care and been allowed to share on the worst day of their lives is something you can’t explain . But it changes you makes you grateful what we you have , it teaches you to let go of the little things .

So as I embark on an unknown journey of treatment I want something to drive me forward. I need to walk and walk a lot .

So I would like on my recovery to raise what I can for this amazing charity. I had the privilege of been part of Lexi s team and she was the most amazing little girl who lived life to the very end despite all the challenges cancer brought. Despite the unimaginable pain of losing Lexi her family have created this wonderful charity and support families in Dorset giving fun opportunities where there is long term conditions . I have seen the impact of their work .

I don’t have goal in mind yet as I don’t know what I will be like on treatment but walk I will every day

Finally things I am grateful for

The NHS - yes the NHS is-under pressure yes staff are stressed but am eternally grateful for care over the last 10 weeks and now on the next phase .

My family - Pete and Jessie my driver to be as healthy as I can to be a mum wife sister aunty and enjoy it .

My friends- I am lucky to have wonderful friends who are there no matter what and accept me as I am and make me laugh every day

My faith -mum has made her presence know on this journey which I have found incredibly comforting. That’s for another blog one day .

My work colleagues- who have taken the reins and allowed me to concentrate on my health . They have been incredible . Thank you

I need to get fitter to help heal . So I am going to walk every day I can , building this up . I don’t have a goal mind that will come in time. And as I walk I hope to raise some money for an amazing charity close to my heart . . So if you can donate anything I will get my ass out of bed I will walk and I will be grateful for all the positive energy around me and the people in my life . I will pop update on the charity page on progress and Jessie intends to keep a tally for me .

Much love

Mairead xx

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