Sixty miles in September

Defeating adversity, Gunstones Bakery Logistics Support manager, Richard Ironside, is running 60 miles during September to raise awareness of Crohn's & Colitis.

Richard was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, a long-term condition where the colon and rectum become inflamed, aged 30. It is not clear what causes ulcerative colitis. A possible cause is your immune system attacking your digestive system. Small ulcers can develop on the colon’s lining and cause bleeding and inflammation.

During an 18 - year period he lost weight whilst his social and work life suffered. Over time Richard had become less and less active and he didn’t have the energy to fix it, his health was restricting him from leading an active lifestyle.

In August 2021, after years of tests and a change of medication, Richard began to feel more human and set off on his journey to regain some fitness.

Whilst he isn’t a natural runner during the last two years Richard has pounded the streets to train for and take part in a 5k and a 10k ‘Race For Life’ raising over £1000 for Cancer Research.

Now he is taking on his next challenge to run 60 miles in September to raise money for Crohns & Colitis UK.

Richard said: “I am raising money to help combat the awful position many people with Crohns & Colitis find themselves in.

“I’ve suffered, felt the pain, used the medicine and gained the benefit. Now I want to give something back and I feel fit enough to complete the challenge.  

“I would be eternally grateful for any donations to a cause which is very personal to me.”

If you would like to sponsor Richard you can donate on the link below:

https://facebook.com/donate/255391207297526