WARRINGTON disability gymnast Natasha Coates, who suffers from a rare condition which makes her allergic to exercise, is celebrating after being crowned 2016 All Around British Champion at Lilleshall.
She was crowned champion in three events, the Beam, Floor and Vault and came 3rd on Bars during the British Championship event – making a total of 19 British titles in two years and the AA Champion for the 3rd year running!
A delighted Natasha, from Appleton, Warrington, said : “I can not thank everyone for their encouragement and support! I couldn’t do it without you all.”
Natasha, 21, who was named Disabled Sportsperson of the Year 2015, suffers from Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). MCAS is a rare condition that causes an over-sensitive immune system. MCAS sufferers have regular, sometimes life-threatening, allergic reactions to a range of triggers from
food to fragrances to exercise.
Next up for Natasha is competing in the English Half Marathon in Warrington next Sunday, September 18 for two charities.
The first is Mast Cell Action, a new charity set up to support sufferers of MCAS. The condition is not currently recognised by the NHS so it is very hard for MCAS sufferers to get diagnosed and treated in the UK. Mast Cell Action works to raise awareness and improve treatment of MCAS.
The second organisation supported by Natasha is Birtenshaw, a local charity which provides education and care services for children and young adults with special educational needs and disabilities. Their services include a school, a college, children’s homes, adult care services, and short breaks.
Natasha pictured with her medal haul
