But, given the opportunity to raise money for children and teenagers suffering with IBD in New Zealand, now seems about the right time to start for her.

Laura was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at nine years old, and spent many years in and out of hospital, has had an uncountable number of operations, was unable to finish her school studies due to illness, and with medication eventually proving not very effective, she received the first stem cell transplant in Europe for Crohn's disease in 2008.

“There have been many bumps in the road along the way and a few more operations and an extended period in hospital last year. But I am now off all medication, eat a restricted but very healthy diet, weigh more than I ever have done, no longer worry about going places where there is not a bathroom, have energy, can exercise, and am fitter and happier than I have ever been! I am incredibly lucky to have regained a level of health that I never thought possible.”

Laura has always dreamed of being well enough and fit enough to run, she even became a personal trainer in her quest for fitness and health. Laura committed to run a half marathon on 5th December in Pauanui.

The 21km course took in some of the best sites at this all-time popular holiday spot: the surf beach, the Pauanui Airfield, the Pauanui Waterways and the off-road forest and estuary-side track of the Pauanui-Tairua trail.

In her quest to achieve her goals of completing the course, with her partner running alongside her for support, she wants to use this as an opportunity to fundraise for Camp Purple Live 2021. “I think that Camp Purple is an amazing opportunity for young children and teenagers. This is something I would have loved the opportunity to do when I was younger.”

For more information on Laura and her progress post marathon please head over to her page.