On 21 May 2023, I ran the Hackney Half Marathon and, on 8 October 2023, I will run the Royal Parks Half Marathon. These are my second and third half marathons after years of a dodgy knee and believing I wasn’t a runner. I would love to put these efforts to good use and raise much-needed funds for Behçet’s UK.

Behçet’s Syndrome (also known as Behçet’s Disease or, simply, Behçet’s) is a chronic condition resulting from disturbances in the body’s immune system. The body’s immune system normally protects the body against infections by producing controlled inflammation. In Behçet’s, the immune system becomes overactive and results in unpredictable outbreaks of unwanted and exaggerated inflammation. Behçet’s symptoms typically come and go in a series of attacks (flare-ups) throughout life.

Behçet’s UK cares for many of those affected by Behçet’s including patients and their carers. They promote research into this rare, complex, and lifelong condition and their ultimate aim is to find a cure but in the meantime, they will strive to obtain the best care for all Behçet’s patients.

A dear friend of mine, an inspirational and courageous person, has Behçet’s and receives healthcare and support with the assistance of Behçet’s UK. It has been transformational. I hope to raise money in support of this friend and others with Behçet’s. The condition is so little-known that Behçet’s UK is too small a charity to receive places to allocate in the London Marathon — it therefore relies on fundraisers like this one.

Please help me raise money for Behçet’s UK — I profoundly appreciate any donation and your support.