SHE’S run ultra-marathons, climbed Ben Nevis and now an inspirational Northwich mum will take on her biggest challenge yet to help fellow Crohn’s disease sufferers.

Emma Raynes, from Kingsmead, is gearing up to climb 17,600 ft to Everest Base Camp this October, all in a bid to raise money and awareness for Crohn’s and Colitis UK and Colostomy UK.

The 45-year-old, from Eddisbury Drive, has lived with the painful inflammatory bowel condition Crohn’s disease for almost two decades.

In that time the mum-of-two has undergone 19 surgeries, the latest of which was major bowel surgery in 2018 which resulted in a permanent stoma bag.

Emma is determined not to let her condition get in her way and it’s her dream of ‘living her best life’ while helping others that’s driving her mission to tackle the Himalayan giant.

She said: “My surgery has given me a new lease of life. Yes, I still struggle as a result of my condition, but I’m determined that this won’t stop me and I want to show other people in my position just what is possible.”

As well as volunteering for the south Manchester Crohn’s and Colitis group, she also helps The Children’s Society and is a committee member of Northwich’s Rock Salt Running group.

She said: “I am very passionate about the human race, human rights and bringing positive change. My mission is to show as many people as possible how to create their best possible life and fulfil their dreams despite adversity.”

Having paid for her flights, Emma is now getting braced to start the intense training for the climb.

She said: “I’ve got a couple of marathons coming up, and some long runs planned and lots of endurance walking – I’m heading to Snowdon in a few weeks to get myself started.”

She’s also set up a JustGiving page to help her reach her £1,000 fundraising target and is keen to reach out to any local businesses who may want to sponsor her kit or donate towards her fundraising target.

Emma added: “I would like to thank many people on this journey, my children and also Mr Soop, my surgeon for giving me my quality of life back.

“Last year was a successful year and within 12 months of stoma surgery I completed a 10k, two half marathons, four full marathons and a 62 mile ultra-marathon.

“This year it’s all about the Manchester Marathon, my Everest basecamp journey and a few ultra marathons thrown in to boot. It’s about helping others while living my best life.”

To support Emma in her mission visit justgiving.com/fundraising/emma-raynes