London Marathon 2024 Fundraising! : In April I am... - MPN Voice

MPN Voice

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London Marathon 2024 Fundraising!

redwards98 profile image
10 Replies

In April I am running the London Marathon in aid of MPN voice to say thank you for all their help and support following my diagnosis with ET 5 years ago when I was 19 years old. Any donations, no matter how small, would be greatly appreciated!

When I was diagnosed with Essential Thrombocythemia at the age of 19, I was confused and unsure what my diagnosis meant for my future. Being so young makes you feel very alone facing the long health journey ahead. I was a national swimmer when I was diagnosed and had just been awarded a full swim scholarship for an American college which my first haematologist told me was out of the question with my condition. At this appointment I was also told I would not be able to do a variety of things because of my health condition, such as jump on a trampoline, cliff jump and jump out of an airplane.

Luckily I discovered MPN Voice and was introduced to a specialist who has supported me throughout my five year journey in the US and now back here in the UK. Luckily I have done everything I was told I would initially not be able to do, with a few minor bumps along the road! Without MPN Voice and the support of my specialist I would not have achieved both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in tandem with a full-time college swimming programme. There were many health issues along the way and times when I wondered whether I could compete at such a level while struggling with the fatigue, headaches, worrying blood results and other MPN symptoms. However, with the MPN family support I managed to excel both athletically and academically and I want to thank the whole MPN family by running the London Marathon this year in aid of MPN voice.

Without MPN Voice, I would not have found a support system that helped me and my family navigate this difficult time. Through their forums and educational resources, we were able to learn more about my diagnosis and find comfort in knowing we weren't alone. Now, as a way of giving back and raising awareness for MPN's, I've decided to participate in the London Marathon 2024 on behalf of MPN Voice (Guy's and St Thomas' Charity). Sport has always been a huge part of my life, and I can't think of a better way to honor this incredible organisation than by pushing myself to complete this marathon.

But I can't do it alone. That's why I'm asking for your help in reaching my fundraising goal of £2,500. Every donation counts, no matter how small. With your support, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by MPN's.

Please use this link to donate, thank you so much!

justgiving.com/page/robyn-e...

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redwards98 profile image
redwards98
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10 Replies
Mazcd profile image
MazcdPartnerMPNVoice

Hi Robyn, thank you so much for supporting MPN Voice, we appreciate it so much, good luck with your training and on the day of the marathon. You are AMAZING.

Bariton profile image
Bariton

Congratulations redwards98! At the moment of diagnosis one can become very anxious and uncertain about what to expect for the rest of ones life. But many MPN patients can lead an almost normal life. Close follow up by a hematologist specialised in MPN, and therapy compliance are essential. Your example can inspire many others!

RazB profile image
RazB

This is amazing! Congratulations on your strength, positivity and all round fantasticness! I too was told that I wouldn’t be able to do lots of fun stuff and like you I have done them all, I need make a new list of things to do now! I will definitely be sponsoring you and cheering you on on your big run! 💪👏🌈

redwards98 profile image
redwards98 in reply to RazB

Thank you so much for your donation!

susieq75 profile image
susieq75

Thank you for doing this fundraising, you are right MPN VOICE is amazing as are you! I made a donation and good luck with the marathon. All the best. Sue

redwards98 profile image
redwards98 in reply to susieq75

Thank you so much for your donation!

Yarnhabit profile image
Yarnhabit

Absolutely amazing story, and achievement- off to donate.

redwards98 profile image
redwards98 in reply to Yarnhabit

Thank you so much for your donation, I really appreciate it!

Bodensee profile image
Bodensee

Sorry, my donation's a little late but it's now on its way... Shall be thinking of you on Sunday! Many thanks for your inspirational example - and to MPN Voice for support which is always there when we need it. Good Luck and All the Best!

redwards98 profile image
redwards98 in reply to Bodensee

I just saw your donation and wanted to express my thanks! Thank you so much I really appreciate it!

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