THE CHALLENGE
I have been on a mission since September 1st. A mission to achieve the quickest time possible to move 5 MILLION STEPS.
Many of you have followed me throughout this challenge that has seen me hit 40,000 to 50,000 steps every day. It seemed a long way off on some of those hot September days but here I am, just over 100 days in, and most importantly, 4.5 million steps in.
The motivation behind this challenge is to raise awareness and funds for Ehlers-Danlos Support UK, a charity close to my heart. As someone who is diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, it has impacted my life in many ways. I hope to break the record for the fastest time to move 5 million steps with a genetic disorder.
SO WHAT IS EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME (EDS)?
It is a group of genetic disorders that affect your connective tissues — primarily your skin, joints and blood vessel walls. Connective tissue is a complex mixture of proteins and other substances that provide strength and elasticity to the underlying structures in your body. Due to the global effect the condition can have on your body, it can literally affect every body system. For me, the worst parts affected are my digestive system and joints.
Raising awareness and understanding is crucial for individuals living with EDS to receive appropriate care and support. Managing digestive symptoms in EDS, for example, can require the help of many healthcare professionals including gastroenterologists, dietitians and surgeons.
1, 2, 3, 4 MILLION.....
These million step milestones are great motivation for me. It was a fantastic feeling when, after 23 days, I reached 1 million steps.
Having run over 4.5 million steps, one thing is for sure, I am definitely experiencing some aches and pains! Deep heat, ice therapy and physiotherapy all help, but the best soother for these aches and pains is SLEEP! I am making sure a good night’s sleep is a priority each day.
.....HERE'S TO 5 MILLION!
With the last quarter of a million steps to go, the finish line is getting closer and I am on track to complete the challenge before the year is out. So when will the all-important 5 million steps be reached? Before Christmas day perhaps? Sooner? What a way to celebrate!
You can follow my progress over on my Instagram @monicapetrosinopt as I near the final milestone of 5 million steps. I am still raising essential funds, so please head to my JustGiving page here if you would like to make a donation. Thank you.
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