In June this year my 6 year old daughter Isabelle was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease. This is a lifelong autoimmune disease where sufferers have an adverse reaction to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. Their immune systems mistakenly attack healthy tissue and damages the surface of the small intestines, disrupting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. Typical symptoms range from diarrhoea, sickness and weight loss and in particular, Isabelle suffers physically and emotionally, mainly with joint, leg and stomach pain, anaemia, and fatigue.

It took months to get Isabelle diagnosed and after several blood tests, appointments and a biopsy, her diagnosis was a relief, although met with sadness too. We have had to make many changes to her diet, which has not been easy, due to her having to try many new foods and it has been particularly tricky when eating out, as many cafes and restaurants still do not cater for people with Coeliac disease.

My mother in law also has Coeliac disease, as do a small number of children at Isabelle’s school. With this in mind, I have decided for the 3^rd time to run the Virgin London Marathon 2016 at the age of 41; yes AGAIN!! I would be grateful if you could get behind me, once again to raise the funds, this time for Coeliac UK, who provide support and drive research which delivers new solutions to the problems that people living with Coeliac Disease face. As always I will be eternally grateful for any support in raising funds for a charity so close to my heart.

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