Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

After quite a few training sessions I believe that completing the Great Scottish Swim may actually be within the realms of possibility and so I now feel that I can use my pain and suffering in the pool, and then over the two mile stretch in the icy waters of Loch Lomond, to help others who suffer on a daily basis. 

My chosen charity is Fibromyalgia Action, who work to increase awareness of Fibromyalgia, to offer help to those who suffer from it, and they also offer help with research into the condition. 

Fibromyalgia is described on their website as the following:

'Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition of widespread pain and profound fatigue. The pain tends to be felt as diffuse aching or burning, often described as head to toe. It may be worse at some times than at others. It may also change location, usually becoming more severe in parts of the body that are used the most. The fatigue ranges from feeling tired, to the exhaustion of a flu-like illness. It may come and go and people can suddenly feel drained of all energy - as if someone just "pulled the plug".'

Anyone can develop Fibromyalgia however it is much more common in woman than it is in men. It is estimated that 1 in 20 people may be affected by it to some degree, however as the condition is not well known it can be difficult to diagnose. 

There is no current cure; only treatment that can relieve symptoms temporarily to make the condition easier to live with. With a bit of luck as awareness grows so does funding and a cure is found! 

Here as some examples of what Fibromyalgia Action could do with money raised:

• £2 would send a single first enquiry pack to a newly diagnosed person
• £20 Could send fibro info to 10 Medical Professionals
• £99 Could fund training for a helpline volunteer

Any support would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.