This October I’m running the London Marathon to raise money for Alopecia UK. Alopecia UK is a small charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia. The charity aims to promote Support, Awareness and Research for those suffering from Alopecia, which is a devastating and bewildering condition.

Alopecia UK is particularly important to me as they helped my late Aunt through their support groups when she lost her hair due to Alopecia 10 years ago. To lose all your hair abruptly and without warning, having no hair and no eyebrows was such a shock for her. Everyone thought she must be having cancer treatment. She felt the need to hide her condition from friends, neighbours and family. Wearing a wig difficult and uncomfortable. Socialising became a challenge because she felt self conscious. Her alopecia made her depressed and lonely. The support groups of Alopecia UK were one of the few places where there was support and understanding.

The causes of alopecia are not well understood and much more research is needed. Thank you for your support and any donations that you can spare will be greatly appreciated by Alopecia UK.

Immie Adshead