We are delighted to announce that we are using the PPL Season 1 Finale to raise money for the Addison's Disease Self Help Group (ADSHG, https://www.addisonsdisease.org.uk). Addison’s Disease, which is otherwise referred to as Adrenal Insufficiency, is a rare disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones such as Cortisol and Aldosterone. There are less than 10,000 cases of Addison's Disease in the UK, making it 300 times rarer than Diabetes. Addison's Disease can lead to a life threatening adrenal crisis, and can be fatal if left untreated.
Sam Basford, one of the most talented Pickleball players in the UK and one of the leading coaches was diagnosed with Addison's Disease just before Christmas, after being rushed into hospital following an adrenal crisis. Sam has been one of the leading Pickleball figures since the sport was introduced into the UK and has been instrumental to the growth of Pickleball England, and more recently, SB Pickleball. Sam is one of the vice-captains in the inaugural season of the Franklin Premier Pickleball League and SB Pickleball are one of the team sponsors.
Sam's diagnosis came out of the blue, and has meant he has decided to take a break from competing to recover and understand more about how Addison's will affect his day to day life. Sam (through SB Pickleball) has run two festivals at this season's PPL fixtures and he has been a great source of advice in forming the league. It is no surprise that after Sam's diagnosis, the players have wanted to rally around and use the platform that they have created to help raise money for ADSHG.
We all hope to see Sam back competing in pickleball soon, but it is great to see him being able to return to running clinics and festivals across the country already! For those of you considering making a donation to ADSHG, please find a link below where all proceeds will be donated directly to the Addison's Disease Self Help Group. This charity is crucial in funding research into Addison's Disease and how life can be made easier for people post-diagnosis.
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