I am running the annual David Goggins 4x4x48 Challenge. This challenge was created by American ultra-runner David Goggins, in which the participant is required to run 4 miles, every 4 hours for 48 hours. This is a test of both physical and mental endurance. I have chosen to undertake this challenge in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, a charity which is close to both mine and my family’s heart.

Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, cystic fibrosis was one the biggest respiratory diseases in the world. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that affects a persons respiratory, immune and digestive system, amongst other things. In people with cystic fibrosis the lungs make thicker sputum (mucus) than normal, which can trap bacteria in the small airways and lead to infection. Symptoms that typically develop include persistent cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties and repeated chest infections. Whilst huge leaps have been made in research to combat the condition, complications arising from cystic fibrosis can still affect both a persons quality of life and life expectancy.

Around 10,600 people in the UK have cystic fibrosis; that's 1 in every 2,500 babies born. Cystic fibrosis affects around 100,000 people in the world. One person in 25 carries the faulty CF gene, usually without knowing; that's over two million people in the UK. If two carriers have a baby, the child has a one-in-four chance of having cystic fibrosis.

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to fighting for a life unlimited by cystic fibrosis (CF) for everyone affected by the condition. Since they started in 1964 they have dedicated themselves to promoting excellence in research and clinical care, as well as providing practical support and advice to people with CF and their families. Their mission is to create a world where being born with CF no longer means a life-long struggle.

The covid-19 pandemic has hugely affected the fundraising efforts of charities around the world. Fundraising for charities has therefore become more important now than ever before. Any donations, whatever the amount, would be greatly appreciated by both myself and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Thank you in advance for your support!