Thatcham woman completes 10k race for Crohns charity
Karen May was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a condition that causes an inflammation of the digestive system which can lead to life-long swelling and pain, while at university nine years ago.
Although there are periods of remission, there is no known cure at present and the 30-year-old has undergone surgery and now lives with an ileostomy.
Mrs May, who teaches at St John the Evangelist Infant and Nursery School in Newbury, said: “My life now with an ileostomy is so much easier than suffering with Crohn’s.
"Living with an ileostomy hasn’t always been easy, it has its embarrassing moments but I have learnt to love it. It has saved my life. It is discreet and hygienic and I can now just get on with it.
“Crohn’s has interrupted my career and my life. I’ve missed family holidays, friend’s weddings, christenings, and other important parts of my life.
“I was scared to talk about my condition to others, but now know that I have to talk about it and raise awareness. I had a boy in my class with Crohn’s and I owe it to him to stand proud and raise awareness.”
Mrs May completed a 10K for Crohn’s run with help from friends and family in London’s Hyde Park on September 7, raising £2,530 for Crohn’s research in the process.
She said: “I had wanted to raise money for Crohn’s since my diagnosis but I haven't ever felt well enough for long enough to do anything. I have wanted to give back, raise awareness and try and raise money to find a cure.
“I am amazed. I never thought when I signed up to it that I would raise so much.
“My family and friends have been so generous. This money will really help the charity. I am also so grateful to my friends and family who completed the run and raised money too.”
Her mother, Ann Taft, said she was incredibly proud of her daughter and what she had achieved.
She said: “Karen is a huge inspiration and manages to always remain cheerful and positive no matter what she is faced with.”
To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/karen-may59/
