Alopecia UK is a charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia. The charity has aims around support, awareness and research.

Losing your hair can be a real shock because it's a big part of who you are!

I was diagnosed with alopecia areata when I started university. Fortunately, I've only had very mild episodes, and I've had a fantastic support system that has helped me get the treatment I need.

But here's the problem: the NHS waiting list for treatment is very long and the cost of private treatment is very high. This is why the support that Alopecia UK can offer and the research that they are carrying out is so vital.

Alopecia is often triggered by stress, and in turn can negatively impact your mental health (losing your hair isn't stress-free leading to a vicious circle!). Raising awareness about the condition will help remove a lot of the stigma surrounding hair loss, which is a lot more common than you might think.

By running the Leeds half marathon I hope to fundraise for this fantastic charity and support others with this condition :).

Celeste Godden