by Martin
Jefferies

Brave Thanet resident Jessica Wales needs to wear a ventilator
to help her breathe at night and is waiting for a double lung
transplant.

But the remarkable 20-year-old is determined to beat all the
odds when she takes part in a five kilometre race on Sunday.

Jessica, who suffers from cystic fibrosis (CF), a disease that
especially affects the lungs and digestive system by clogging them
with thick, sticky mucus, will tackle the adidas Hydro Active
Challenge through Hyde Park, London.

She hopes the mini marathon will raise hundreds of pounds for a
new CF unit at King's College Hospital, London, where she is a
patient.

A team of specialists from the hospital will be on hand to
support her throughout her charity challenge.

Jessica, who lives with her family in Westgate-on-Sea, said:
"It's vital that CF sufferers receive the appropriate healthcare to
ensure a better quality and length of life.

"King's College Hospital provides a 'home from home' for those
frequent and often lengthy stays and I'd like to help the centre
help other people just like me."

Video: 20-year-old Jessica Wales from Westgate-on-Sea talks to
Thanet Extra reporter Martin Jefferies

Jessica has been waiting for a suitable lung transplant since
2005 and has proved herself as a real fighter by outliving a
terrifying initial prognosis of just two years.

As an advocate for the transplant charity Live Life Then Give
Life (LLTGL), she has tirelessly appealed for people
to join the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Jessica plans to make a separate donation to the organisation
after completing Sunday’s race.

To sponsor Jessica, visit www.justgiving.com/jessicawales1989.

To join the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.uktransplant.org.uk
or telephoning 0300 123 23 23.