I've chosen to raise funds for BTF by participating in the Great Birmingham Run, half marathon 2024 because every time I've needed information or support along my thyroid journey BTF has been there. Now, I had our 4th child 8 weeks ago and the event is in 90 days so I can't promise any lightning-quick finish times but I'll cross the line!!

 In 2014 I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism on my 19th birthday, BTF had so much information which made it 10 times easier for me to understand the ins & outs of what was going on and what it meant longer term. 

Fast forward to 2021 again a few days after my birthday, I found a lump in my neck. I was 38 weeks pregnant with our 3rd child at the time, so I heard plenty of comments about it being hormonal, but because of BTF, I pushed for further investigations. By the time our baby was 6 weeks old, it was clear that the growth wasn't a nice one, I was terrified to sleep in case I didn't wake up and I would cry with thoughts that I wouldn't be around for our children.

 There were delays after delays with our hospital, from appointments & Christmas holidays to COVID & pathology delays, making the anxiety and worry even worse! BTF was one place that helped to relieve some of that worry, making the days easier and the wait more bearable. The patient stories and statistics are the things that helped me the most, having a community of people who know what it's like and people who are thriving after their treatments.

 After my surgery in March 2022, we found out that the margins were good and so in May 2022 I was given the all clear! Last year we got married in May 2023 to celebrate 1 year all clear, so this year the half marathon will mark 2 years all clear!!

I'd be super grateful for any donations via my Enthuse page  

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