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Malini Craig

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Category: Fundraising Articles

Published on Wednesday, 14 May 2025 14:38

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Running Through Fibromyalgia: Malini Craig's Story

At FMA UK, we are always inspired by the strength and determination of those in our community who turn their personal challenges into powerful acts of advocacy and support. One such individual is Malini Craig, who is taking on the Great North Run this year to raise vital funds and awareness for fibromyalgia. Her story is one of perseverance, community, and the transformative impact of finding the right support at the right time. We are proud to share her journey with you in her own words:

"I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2004 when I was 21 years old, after an initial diagnosis of CFS when I was 15. My primary symptoms for fibromyalgia are aching joints, particularly in my legs, disturbed sleep, fatigue, and an extreme sensitivity to the cold. Over the years, I have worked out how to manage my symptoms, as I found that there was little advice available at the beginning of my diagnosis, and I have managed to have a full-time career in education.

The feeling of isolation left me feeling low, as though I was the only one experiencing these sensations and that no one truly understood what I was going through. This lack of support was particularly difficult when I met my husband, who understandably had a limited understanding of fibromyalgia and desired more information about how best to support me.

However, the increased intensity of my symptoms in recent years has meant that I now need to really plan out my days to intentionally include time to rest and recover. This extra layer of planning can be challenging to fit around my day-to-day commitments, such as work, and requires careful consideration.

It has been frustrating to speak to medical professionals who are dismissive of how I am feeling and, at times, it has been incredibly isolating. No medical professional ever directed me or my family to any support groups for advice or support. At a loss, I started to do some research myself and found FMA UK, whose mission to increase awareness of fibromyalgia resonated with me.

Realising that the charity was primarily run by volunteers, the majority of whom are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, made me start thinking about how I could help. Specific strategies I have used to manage my fibromyalgia include running, and committing to run at least three times a week with friends from Blackburn Road Runners nine years ago has been invaluable in maintaining consistency.

I have been very lucky that over the past 15 years my symptoms have flared up, but I have generally been able to manage these myself. However, recently the intensity of the existing symptoms has worsened significantly. Whilst I have managed to keep my running mileage consistent, this has really affected my running speed, and it now takes me longer to recover after longer runs.

Some of my concerns as I prepare for the Great North Run are navigating the training schedule and fitting in the necessary longer runs, all while carefully managing my fibromyalgia symptoms and balancing my day-to-day commitments. When I saw the opportunity to apply for a Great North Run place to raise money, I knew this is what I wanted to do, as running has played such an important part in managing my symptoms, as well as supporting my mental health. I am very grateful to all of the advice I have received from FMA UK and am proud to be representing them in the Great North Run 2025."

We are so proud to have Malini lacing up her trainers for FMA UK at this year's Great North Run. Her strength and honesty shine a light on the daily realities of fibromyalgia and the power of community support. Thank you, Malini, for sharing your story and raising awareness with every mile. We are behind you all the way and wish you the very best of luck on race day!

To support Malini and help her reach her fundraising goal, please visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/malini-craig-1