Gayle Runs Yorkshire Marathon to Raise Awareness for Sjogren's Syndrome

After making a big life-change in 2019, giving up smoking and taking up running, Gayle started the Couch to 5K in January of 2020.

Things were going well, and she trained for a 10K in October of the same year. However, after some health struggles, Gayle was unfortunately diagnosed with both Sjogren's syndrome and Raynaud's phenomenon.

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects the entire body, often manifesting through extreme dryness, profound fatigue, and chronic joint pain. Raynaud's phenomenon is more likely to be found in sufferers of Sjogren's syndrome, which affects blood flow to the extremities. 

One of Gayle's biggest struggles were with her gastrointestinal issues, meaning she had to change her entire diet.

"I am having to be super strict about what I am eating, as this impacts greatly with my running...Luckily, my PT sets me dietary targets to try and assist with keeping everything in balance, but this is a daily challenge, and some days I just cannot train."

She also experiences daily fatigue:

"I use running as part of my medication, as it helps overcome some of the tiredness issues I suffer from."

Nonetheless, Gayle has managed to do several 10Ks, and last year decided that she wanted to run the Yorkshire Marathon. Despite her determination and preparation, the run caused a massive GI flare up at mile 10.

"I did finish, but this disease takes all the enjoyment away from everything in life that most people take for granted."

Last year's marathon took a large toll, from which Gayle is still recovering, but she is still determined to complete this year's Yorkshire Marathon as well.

"This year my mantra is - I will not be defeated"

She hopes that, by participating in the marathon, as well as multiple other events in the build-up, she can help to raise both awareness and funds for the condition.

"The fact that I can even consider taking on these races is a huge achievement in itself."