In 2020, I (Kien), was officially diagnosed with IPEX Syndrome, an immune condition that is not only rare but is more common in babies. However, I was diagnosed at the age of 17. Through my diagnosis, and being on a lot of medication throughout my entire life up until this point in time, I got told by my immunologist that I wouldnt have much of a quality of life if I did not receive a Stem Cell Transplant. Through the process of finding a donor and thanks to Anthony Nolan, a donor that was 9/10 match, was found and I underwent a smooth, successful transplant as of 30th March 2021. As of now, almost 4 years post transplant as of the 30th March 2025, I am fit, well and almost completed my journey from having an immune disorder to having a fully functional, healthy immune system. Post-transplant I caught infections, viruses, and throughout the entirety of COVID, 1 was unable to see my friends, and some of my closest family. Not only due to COVID, but even when restrictions were lifted, I was still unable to participate in anything physical with my friends and family due to the risk of infection. This took a massive toll on my mental health and physical health too, at a time not even being able to walk 200m without being extremely out of breath. With perseverence, resilience, and a lot of self will and strength, I overcame my own horrible thoughts in my head, and I slowly but surely returned to normality - going back to my part time job, to later starting my university course in which I had to defer for a year. Alongside this, my physical health impoved as my mental wellbeing and state of mind improved. In the end, without Anthony Nolan however, I would not be the person I am today, I would be in a worse state and with the immune condition I had previously, unlikely to have a quality of life.

Our goal is to reach £1000, not only as it would be a great achievement but would help enormously to the charity that helped me just as much. Please, if you can, donate.

Content up until and of the Tough Mudder challenge will be posted on the instagram account that we made, @toughmudderbykienandmax, so please, be sure to follow and keep updated with our training and journey!