Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Over the next year or so I will be participating in various events (running/mud runs/obstacle course races) to raise money for the Cystinosis Foundation UK.

Here's why...

Some friends of mine have beautiful 1 year old twin girlies, and they recently found out that one of their gorgeous girls, Ellie, has Cystinosis. This is a rare, metabolic disease, which is diagnosed early in childhood, usually before the age of two.

The problem with cystinosis is an increase in many parts of the body of a natural chemical, an amino acid called cystine. This build up causes cystine crystals to form in organs of the body causing damage. These crystals form firstly in the kidneys and the eyes, and if left untreated later in the muscles, pancreas, thyroid gland and white blood cells. There are currently only about 2000 reported cases worldwide.

At present there is no cure, just a lifetime of treatment to try and prevent her condition from getting worse. Less cystine, less damage!! Being such a rare condition most research is paid for by fundraising.

http://www.cystinosis.org.uk/learn-more/what-is-cystinosis/

My first event will the Spartan Sprint held in Windsor on 1st October - http://www.spartanrace.uk/en/race/detail/1442/overview

This is a mud/run obstacle course race...having recently had a child myself and trying to get my fitness back, this a short event at 5-6km, but a toughie......with a 30 Burpee penalty for not completing an obstacle.

I have a little team for this event.. high five to Lucy, Jess and Laura..!!

Any sponsorship will be hugely appreciated by myself and Ellie's family.

Equally if anyone would like to join me in any of my events then please do!

Pip xxx

#teamelliepond