Dr. Angela Bess
My Story
Welcome to my Fundraising Page!
I've been selected to run the 2024 TCS London Marathon for the charity Action on Pre-eclampsia (APEC). The London Marathon has become an annual, inspiring and colorful fixture in the world’s sporting calendar since the inaugural race in 1981; a celebration of fun, fundraising and fancy dress. Over the years more than a million people have completed the 26.2-mile course – which runs from Blackheath to The Mall, with a spectacular finish in front of Buckingham Palace, showcasing the very best that the capital city has to offer.
What is pre-eclampsia? Preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure disorder that can happen during pregnancy or soon after childbirth. It can impair kidney and liver function, cause blood clotting problems, pulmonary edema (fluid on the lungs), seizures and, in severe forms or left untreated, maternal and infant death. Pre-eclampsia can develop without you realizing it, so it’s important to know the symptoms. Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal deaths worldwide, with Black women being three to four times more likely to die from this disease than white women.
Why am I fundraising for Team APEC? Pre-eclampsia has impacted me both professionally and personally. As an obstetrician, I frequently diagnose and treat patients with this condition. I've seen the poor outcomes that can result from this disease process, particularly amongst Black women. On a personal note, I suffered from pre-eclampasia with my pregnancies. I had to be induced at 35 weeks with both pregnancies due to pre-eclampsia. With my second pregnancy I developed postpartum cardiomyopathy which can be deadly with mortality rates ranging from 5% to 25%. Thankfully I recognized the signs and symptoms, had access to quality healthcare, and sought medical attention right away.
How will your donation be used? Your donation will be used to further the mission of Action on Pre-eclampsia which is to raise public and professional awareness of pre-eclampsia, improve care, and ease or prevent the physical and emotional suffering caused by the disease. Please visit https://action-on-pre-eclampsia.org.uk/ to learn more about APEC and their programs.
