Six years ago I was very unwell. I was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs at the Eastbourne District General Hospital.

Due to complications, I was subsequently referred to the respiratory unit at the Royal Brompton Hospital. Their prognosis was that I had Interstitial Lung Disease. This condition means that I become breathless when exerting myself. I was advised that life expectancy with this condition was 3 to 5 years. I found that I was breathless just doing ordinary everyday activities.

I was also advised by the medical professionals to retire early whilst I still had the chance to enjoy a retirement!

I took medical advice and retired early. I also took their advice in relation to my medication, my diet and my general level of fitness. I am very grateful to the staff at the Royal Brompton Hospital for their assistance and support. As a result, I wanted to do something to thank the medical team at the Royal Brompton Hospital for the fantastic job of work they do.

I wanted to raise some money for them but running a marathon is beyond me now. However, I can walk - albeit slowly I admit.

I go to the Royal Brompton Hospital every 6 months. My next appointment is on the 30th. May and I plan to walk there from my home in Seaford East Sussex. The distance is 65 miles which means that in order to attend my next appointment I will have to stagger the journey over 6 days.

Please help me raise funds for the Royal Brompton Hospital - this a very worthwhile cause !

Thank you.

Paul Feast