On Sunday 14th April 2024 I will be running the Manchester Marathon in aid of ME Research UK, a charity that funds crucial research into finding a cure for ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome).

Those that know me may know that my mum, Sue, is a long-term sufferer of ME/CFS - an illness which has affected her for over 20 years. Since 2019 it has become so severe that it has rendered her effectively housebound and unable to work.

ME is a disease affecting an estimated 250,000 people in the UK and millions worldwide. Debilitating fatigue along with muscle aches/pain and a wide range of other physical symptoms make it hard to work, go to school, or take part in family and social life. Around 25% of sufferers are housebound or bedbound. Only a small minority of patients ever recover. Despite this, there is not yet a known cause or treatment.

Research into ME/CFS is critically underfunded. Many ME sufferers feel they are invisible, out of sight and out of mind of the medical and research communities. If you'd like to help me raise awareness on behalf of my mum, and raise money to continue funding vital research, please consider donating if you are able to.

You can find out more about ME here: https://www.meresearch.org.uk/what-is-me

Thank you for your support