https://www.gofundme.com/f/mattys-ttp-challenge
Matty Completes 3 x Half Marathons for Charity "That Means So Much" to Him
Matty Jackman completed three half marathons back-to-back (from Hutton Roof to Lindale) to raise funds and awareness for the TTP Network, a charity that holds a special place in his heart.
Matty's father is living with TTP (Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura), a rare blood disorder. The TTP Network has been instrumental in providing support and care for his father, making this cause deeply personal for Matty.
He took on the grueling challenge of running 39.3 miles in one day, battling not only the physical challenge but also the less-than-ideal hot weather conditions.
"The weather was not made for redheads today, but we battled on," he shared. His effort was met with overwhelming support from the community, helping him raise over £1000 for the TTP Network.
"This charity means so much to me," Matty expressed. "The support and care my father has received from Liverpool and the TTP Network have been incredible. This run was a small way for me to give back and raise awareness for the amazing work they do."
The funds raised from this event will go towards supporting the TTP Network's mission to provide assistance and improve the lives of those affected by TTP. The charity offers crucial resources, support, and advocacy for patients and their families, striving to make a difference in the fight against this rare condition.
For those inspired by Matty's journey and looking to contribute, donations are still being accepted.
Every bit helps in making a difference for those affected by TTP.
His target for fundraising is £1313.
Why this (very specific) amount? First, three things about TTP:
- What is it? Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (TTP) is an acute life-threatening illness with a mortality rate of 90% without treatment. Furthermore, 30%-50% of patients will experience multiple episodes of TTP (called relapses) after their initial diagnosis.
- How does it affect you? TTP causes extensive clotting in small blood vessels throughout the body. Essentially, it causes thousands of mini-strokes all over the body, leading to bruising and organ failure.
- Why? Most cases of TTP arise from a lack of an enzyme known as ADAMTS 13, leading to small blood clots in the blood vessels, low platelet counts, and destruction of red blood cells. In short, ADAMTS 13, the good guy, stops working because your body makes antibodies, the bad guys, that attack ADAMTS 13. TTP means you are destroying the ADAMTS 13 that is required to prevent you from clotting, hence the significance of the number 13! ADAMTS 13 isn’t unlucky for any of us, especially those with TTP.
Matty Jackman’s commitment to both his campaign and the causes he believes in continues to inspire and resonate with the people of Westmorland and Lonsdale.
