Hello and thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I will be running the Norwich Half Marathon on 9 April 2017 for Microtia UK, a charity and cause close to my heart. I was originally due to run at an event in September 2016 but had to postpone due to needing surgery - so I've come up with a plan B!

Microtia is a condition that I myself was born with and whilst often unnoticed it has such large and lifelong implications for those who are affected. 

Approximately one in 6000 babies are born with Microtia, which results in underdeveloped or missing ears. The condition results in hearing loss and it can also affect the heart, kidneys, spine and different parts of the face.  Those with Microtia can end up undergoing years of surgery, particularly to reconstruct the ears and provide a degree of hearing. I've had a few operations, and my surgery has even featured on the BBC! My most recent operation involved fitting a metal fixture in my skull which enables me to use a Cochlear Bone Anchored Hearing Aid as I am partially deaf.

The work that Microtia UK does is so important not only to those born with the condition but to their families too.  The funds that Microtia UK receives through donations are used in the following ways:

- Developing research in the field of Microtia. Despite advances in reconstructive surgery, the great number of patients opting for ear reconstruction must still endure painful and complex procedures first devised nearly a century ago. Synthetic materials developed in the 1990s are the current "best" option, but are prone to high-rates of infection or extrusion. Research areas include stem cell research and regenerative medicine, along with work looking at psychological aspects, spatial hearing and the impact of Bone Anchored Hearing Aids.

- Education and publications for those affected by Microtia, their families and professionals.

- Organising events for those affected by Microtia.

I've never run a half marathon before but am looking forward to the challenges that training will bring and raising much needed funds for Microtia UK! Your donations really are appreciated and will help to make a huge difference to a cause close to my heart.

Thank you so much for your support! 

Nicola xxx