A WOMAN with a condition that leaves her exhausted is hoping to kick-start a support group after feeling “alone” during her battle.

Nichola Sparks, of Gardeners Road, Halstead, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia two years ago after a lifetime of feeling muscle pain, fatigue and disturbed sleep.

Nichola wants to start a support group in the area and raise awareness for the condition.

The 45-year-old mum said: “Locally there is nothing for us, the closest support group I have found is in Wickford.

“That is pretty poor really, I don’t drive and considering the nature of the condition, it is too far to expect a sufferer to go.

“There is very little GPs can do, most I have spoken to know very little about the condition, and specialists don’t seem any better. We suffer in silence a lot of the time, because there is noone who understands, I know it has totally changed my life.”

Although it affects one in 50, Nichola says she has felt alone.

She added: “It is so beneficial just to speak to people who have fibromyalgia and understand what you are going through.

“My family have been a huge support, but even they don’t understand how I feel and what is actually wrong.

"If there is anyone out there who is suffering at all they can contact me and I will try to help.”

E-mail nicholasparkes1971@gmail.com.