A nurse who works at Leighton Hospital is preparing to take on an extraordinary 100-mile ultra marathon challenge to raise funds for the Specialist Stoma Service that has supported her throughout her own journey living with Crohn's disease.
Emma Raynes, who works as a nurse at Leighton Hospital and lives with a stoma herself, is aiming to raise funds for the Specialist Stoma Service that supports patients across Leighton Hospital and the wider Mid Cheshire community.
The challenge is the latest in a remarkable year of fundraising and endurance. Emma has already completed two ultra marathons this year – covering 30 miles and 52 miles respectively – meaning she will have raced more than 180 miles in total if she completes her latest challenge.
Emma has lived with a stoma for eight years following surgery related to Crohn's disease. She says the support she has received from the Specialist Stoma Service inspired her to give something back and help ensure other patients receive the same level of care and encouragement.
As a nurse, Emma regularly supports patients who are adjusting to life with a stoma and often shares her own experiences to help reassure and inspire them.
The funds raised will support the Specialist Stoma Service, helping the team continue to provide additional support, resources and improvements for patients living with a stoma across Mid Cheshire.
Emma said: "Living with Crohn's disease and having a stoma has completely changed my life, but not in the way many people might expect. Having a stoma has enabled me to live life to the fullest, continue working as a nurse and take on challenges that once felt impossible.
"The Specialist Stoma Service has supported me every step of the way over the last eight years, and this challenge is my way of saying thank you. I also want to show other people living with a stoma that it doesn't have to define or limit you. Over 180 miles of ultra running in one year certainly proves that.
"When I speak to patients, I hope my story gives them confidence that life after stoma surgery can still be full of adventure, achievement and opportunity. If my challenge inspires even one person to feel more positive about their future, then that would be incredibly special."
Charlotte Backhouse, Specialist Stoma Team Leader, said: "Emma is an incredible ambassador for everyone living with a stoma. Not only is she taking on an extraordinary physical challenge, but she is using her personal experience to inspire and support others during what can be a life-changing adjustment.
"Our team is privileged to support patients across Mid Cheshire, and we are incredibly grateful that Emma has chosen to raise funds for the service. Her determination, resilience and positivity demonstrate exactly what can be achieved when people receive the right support."
Emma Robertson, Head of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, said: "We are immensely proud to support Emma's fundraising journey. Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference our NHS services make to people's lives and the strength and determination of the patients and staff we work alongside every day.
"Every pound raised will help enhance the support available through the Specialist Stoma Service and make a meaningful difference for patients across our communities. We wish Emma the very best of luck with her 100-mile challenge and will be cheering her on every step of the way."
Emma hopes her challenge will raise both funds and awareness, helping more people understand that living with a stoma does not mean giving up on the things you love.
To support Emma and donate to her fundraising campaign click HERE