This year I was diagnosed with a rare condition called unicentric Castleman disease (UCD) after major surgery January. Sam and I have decided to raise money for the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network to support others going through the process of being diagnosed, the awareness of the disease and the medical knowledge to treat and cure those that have it.
Sam and I will both be running (or crawling!) a 5k Tough Mudder in May 2020 – as those of you who know me will know that I absolutely hate running of any kind so this is definitely a challenge for me! We are also organizing a Quiz Night – the proceeds of which will be added to the money raised on here.
Everyone’s journey is different – my journey has taken me through major surgery and a diagnosis of a rare disease – both of which I conquered only with the love and support of my family, who were there for me, and each other, every step of the way. I have also received care and comfort in the support of others through the CDCN and reading the book by David Fajgenbaum – Chasing My Cure (definitely worth the read!).
All the money raised will help the CDCN charity to continue their research into the disease and develop medicines to help those suffering with it. I know there are lots of worthwhile and amazing charities all needing support financially but this is close to our hearts and it has affected us personally and we appreciate any support (however big or small).