Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus) is a presently incurable illness of the immune system, a condition in which the body’s defence mechanism begins to attack itself through an excess of antibodies in the blood stream causing inflammation and damage in the joints, muscles and other organs.

Lupus may be triggered by various means and can present in a bewildering number of ways, even to the extent of mimicking other illnesses such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or Multiple Sclerosis.  The cause of lupus is not known although research has provided evidence implicating heredity, hormones and infections including viruses.

The majority of lupus patients are young women aged 16-55 but men and even young children can be affected. It is estimated that 1 in 750 women suffer from lupus in the UK with the ratio of women to men being 9:1. Lupus is a worldwide disease more common in some races than others. The incidence in white women is 1 in 1000 compared with that in black women of 1 in 250. Asian races also have a high incidence, 1 in 500 of Lupus. Only 10% of lupus patients are male.

Why LUPUS?

During my trip to Paris last May, my darling cousin sister's Lupus flared up and was in a lot of pain - I decided that day I would try and do something to 1) raise awareness 2) try and give back a little to the world.

Even though Lupus is a very common disease - there is little awareness. 

The marathon will be the hardest thing I've done, I would love to say I am truly prepared but the truth is there is probably a million different things I could of done during my training including running more.

With a little under a week left til the big day, I'm beyond anxious. But with the support of my family and friends I will give it 110% to finish and do myself proud.

I would like to thank my wife, who has been my strength during my training. My family who will join me on my big day, my colleagues who initially laughed at the notion I am running the marathon (one brought me a oxygen mask) One of my bosses asking me if I have sufficient life insurance as I could die etc (thanks G). Lastly to those who have joined me on my runs pushed me to go faster, harder and given me much needed advice. Thanks Dan, Hugo, Ilfryn, Erwan, Cisco, Afraz, Yilun, and Aditya.