Out of the three disciplines of triathlon, running is always the most challenging for me, so 26.2 miles/42km definitely didn’t come easy! I knew I would need to be disciplined with my training in order to complete the course, however for various reasons training did not go to plan after all, so it was a long hard day in the end. Still the sun shone, we had perfect conditions all day and, as ever, I made some great new friends along the way.

When my eldest daughter was newborn we discovered she has Congenital Hypothyroidism - she was born without a thyroid. This can have devastating effects if not identified and treated early. Fortunately it is included in the newborn screening tests in the UK so we were able to begin treatment immediately with no issues. Without this vital early identification and treatment, it would have been a very different story.

 As a parent, I found the information and support received from the BTF invaluable. 

 Many people’s lives are affected by thyroid conditions, whether from birth or later in life. There is often relatively little information available at the point of diagnosis and further research into thyroid conditions is needed. The BTF works to provide information to patients and families, and to fund research in order to improve outcomes for those affected. 

 I would like to thank the BTF for the help and information we received as a family when we most needed it, and also for all their support these past few months with my marathon challenge. Thanks also to everyone who donated and contributed to smashing my fundraising target, it is much appreciated and I know the funds will go to very good use. 

 Jo 😊 x

Jo raised 772.00 for the BTF

Jo after the race!	Jo's vest!