Galactosaemia is a rare metabolic disorder in which the body cannot process the sugar galactose, which can be found in milk and other dairy products. In people with galactosaemia, galactose is not metabolised and stays in the blood. The levels build up and cause complications such as an enlarged liver, cataracts, brain damage and kidney failure. Untreated, galactosaemia can be life threatening.

In 2012 our son Finlay was born and quickly became very unwell. After a number of anxious days in hospital Finlay was diagnosed with Galactosaemia. Galactosaemia is a genetic condition and in 2015 our younger son Bode was also diagnosed.

The Galactosaemia Support Group brings families with galactosaemic children and adult galactosaemics into contact with each other and offers support where most needed. They promote awareness of galactosaemia within the medical/teaching professions, the food/pharmaceutical industries and the general public at large. The research that they have conducted has been used to help set international guidelines for the treatment and management of Galactosaemia. The charity receives no contributions from central Government and relies heavily on the generosity of the public to help fund it’s valuable work.

To show my support to this charity I am taking part in the Hever Castle Triathalon. The Gauntlet – Half Iron Distance event will challenge me to complete a 1.9km lake swim, a 90km bike and a 21km off-road run. I am raising money for the Galactosaemia Support Group so they can continue with their valuable work. Any sponsorship you can offer will be gratefully received.

Thank you in advance for any support you can give.

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