David tries to Tri Reigate!

This year I wanted to take on a new challenge and celebrate a return to fitness, whilst fundraising for two charities I would like to support, so I have entered Tri Reigate which takes place on Saturday 13th September.

Over the last 12 years, I have suffered three bouts of pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the pericardium, the sac which surrounds the heart. Each time, this has reduced my fitness levels to the bare minimum, finding it difficult to get through the day or walk up the stairs without being out of breath whilst experiencing some unpleasant chest pains and heartbeat symptoms. However, once the inflammation subsides, it has been swimming, cycling and running that has built my fitness levels back up to be able to play sport and take part in events again.
Although this Tri Reigate sprint distance triathlon (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) may be a frequent occurrence for many, for me it will be a challenge as last year I had my third episode of pericarditis and was reduced to starting back at zero with my fitness.
The challenge is a nod to the three disciplines which each time have helped me build my fitness back up again.

Each time I have had pericarditis, I have been treated by the cardiology department at East Surrey Hospital and in particular Dr Banerjee who has been exceptional and first diagnosed me just by listening to my heart, which was later confirmed by ECG's and heart scans. Although my heart is scarred from the three occurrences, and I may be susceptible to further episodes, they are hopeful that it won't cause any serious long term effects. For their help, support and treatment, I am fundraising for SASH (Surrey and Sussex Healthcare Charity), and I have asked any money to be directed to the cardiology department at East Surrey Hospital.

The second charity is a small charity that I would like to support - the Marfan Trust. Marfan syndrome is a disorder of the body’s connective tissue that leads to medical problems affecting the heart, eyes and skeleton, requiring treatment to prevent life-threatening complications. Living with Marfan syndrome requires numerous medical appointments, regular monitoring and tests as well as medication, and my nephew was diagnosed at a very young age with this condition. The Marfan Trust has funded medical research projects that aim to aid the diagnosis and treatment of Marfan syndrome patients; provides support and medical guidance to those affected and their families and provides educational literature on Marfan syndrome and all its aspects to the medical profession and the general public, thus raising awareness of the condition.

I hope you will help me support these two charities as I do my best to complete the course.

Thank you for your support,

David