Pai Masendu says the London Marathon is an experience she’ll never forget. Will she do it again? ‘If I manage to get liposuction, then I’ll consider another marathon,” she said. ‘But for now, I’ll stick to half marathons.’
Pai was diagnosed with Lipoedema after many years of being told she was obese. ‘I hated my legs being disproportionately larger than my upper body,’ she said. ‘Losing weight is always a battle, but when I do, it’s from my upper body, with very little change to my legs and upper arms. I suffered with tenderness and bruising, and for many years GPs told me that I was “knocking myself”. Since finding Lipoedema UK, I’ve learned there are other women like me, including many who’ve received a diagnosis so late that mobility is an issue. Lipoedema UK guided me towards getting a diagnosis and the support I need to manage my condition.’
Pai ran the marathon for Lipoedema UK for two reasons. ‘My experience is that many GPs are unfamiliar with Lipoedema and frequently misdiagnose it. I wanted to raise awareness. I also wanted to raise money for research, leading to the treatment and management of this debilitating, chronic condition.’ Her friends and family found donating through JustGiving simple and fast.
Payment details are secure and JustGiving never sends unwanted emails. Once donated, the money raised is sent directly to the charity, making it an efficient way to help Lipoedema UK cut costs. Pai’s marathon task raised £595. One kind giver on Pai’s page wrote: ‘You are an inspiration Pai. I am so pleased that Lipoedema UK has helped you find a diagnosis and how you are helping us help more people struggling with Lipoedema. Love your energy, too!’
