Nurse with stoma to run 100-mile ultramarathon

A nurse is preparing to take on a 100-mile ultramarathon to raise funds for a specialist stoma service which has supported her while she lives with Crohn's disease.

Emma Raynes, who works at Leighton Hospital in Crewe, Cheshire, lives with a stoma provided by the trust running the site, and has already completed two ultra marathons this year – covering distances of 30 miles (48 km) and 52 miles (83 km).

She will have raced more than 180 miles in total when she completes her latest challenge.

"The specialist stoma service has supported me every step of the way over the last eight years, and this challenge is my way of saying thank you," she said.

"Living with Crohn's disease and having a stoma has completely changed my life, but not in the way many people might expect.

"Having a stoma has enabled me to live life to the fullest, continue working as a nurse and take on challenges that once felt impossible."

Raynes has lived with a stoma for eight years and said the support she had received from the service inspired her to give something back and ensure other patients received the same level of care and encouragement.

During her working life, she supports patients who are adjusting to life with a stoma and often shares her own experiences to help reassure them.

"I hope my story gives them confidence that life after stoma surgery can still be full of adventure, achievement and opportunity," she said.

"If my challenge inspires even one person to feel more positive about their future, then that would be incredibly special."

Stoma team leader Charlotte Backhouse said Raynes was inspirational.

"Her determination, resilience and positivity demonstrate exactly what can be achieved when people receive the right support," Backhouse said.

Emma Robertson, head of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, said every pound would make a meaningful difference.

"Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference our NHS services make to people's lives and the strength and determination of the patients and staff we work alongside every day," Robertson said.

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