I (Sarah) have Pernicious Anaemia (PA). Some days I literally can't get out of bed because I'm exhausted after a good nights sleep.  But I get up because I want to enjoy my children and live my life, and not sleep through it.

It's thanks to the Pernicious Anaemia Society (PAS) that I can do this because when I hit a very low point a few years ago, they educated me about my condition and gave me loads of support.

PAS are doing an amazing job at raising awareness with medical professionals and working with researchers. But they're run by volunteers, most of whom have PA, and need more funds to progress much needed research and answer the phone to give vital support to desperate people - like me a few years ago. 

So... I've set myself a challenge to swim 1 mile in open water (and persuaded Fiona it'll be great fun!) to prove to myself that PA hasn't got the best of me and pay PAS back in some small way.  Plus I want my children to think of me in some other way than the lazy one that stays in bed!!

I buy b12 privately and self inject as and when I feel like I need it.  I get this wrong sometimes and have symptom "flare ups" but I'm hoping I can manage well enough to get through this challenge.  And if I get tired I can just float, right?!

Disclaimer / Don't do this home!   I made the decision to self inject after talking to a doctor, was taught how to inject by a nurse and source injectable b12 though a doctor. I'm not endorsing self medication in any form, injectable or otherwise.  Seek support from a medical professional, etc....

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.