Ultra Runner Takes on 33,000-Mile Challenge Despite Devastating Diagnosis

Strategic Insights -

Matthew Denniff, a determined ultra runner from Loughborough, is taking on the incredible challenge of running 33,000 miles in a decade to raise funds for Vasculitis UK. The 32-year-old was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), earlier this year, which has left him with debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, and loss of sensation in his feet and hands. Despite his struggles, Matthew has learned to run again and is now determined to push through the physical and emotional discomfort to achieve his goal.

Key Takeaways:

  • Matthew Denniff, a 32-year-old ultra runner from Loughborough, has been diagnosed with Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), a rare autoimmune disease that affects approximately 2-38 people per 1,000,000 in Europe.
  • Matthew's symptoms included fatigue, muscle aches, and loss of sensation in his feet and hands, which forced him to stop running for several months.
  • Despite being in remission, Matthew still experiences ongoing pain in his feet and hands due to mononeuritis multiplex (MNM), a complication of EGPA.
  • Matthew is determined to complete his 33,000-mile challenge in a decade, despite knowing that 25% of this challenge will be undertaken while suffering with vasculitis.
  • Matthew's goal is to run 3,300 miles per year, or 275 miles per month, and 9.1 miles per day for 3652 days.
  • Matthew is raising funds for Vasculitis UK, a charity that provides support, advice, and information to those suffering from vasculitis and their families.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 2-38 people per 1,000,000 in Europe suffer from EGPA.
  • Matthew runs 4169 miles in 2023, a significant increase from 630 miles in September 2020.
  • Matthew aims to run 33,000 miles in a decade, equivalent to 3,300 miles per year or 275 miles per month.
  • Matthew will run 9.1 miles per day for 3652 days to achieve his goal.
  • Vasculitis UK provides support, advice, and information to those suffering from vasculitis and their families.

Sources:

  • Matthew Denniff, via personal interview
  • https://www.justgiving.com/page/matthew-denniff-3