A STUDENT from Cwmbran who undergoes a daily battle against muscular pain and extreme tiredness is determined to complete her master’s degree as she starts fundraising for an environmental project.

Charlotte Long, 22, suffers with Fibromyalgia that causes pain all over the body, underactive thyroid gland that causes extreme tiredness and Chronic fatigue syndrome that causes disturbed sleep patterns and muscular aches.

Despite this, she is determined to complete her master’s degree at The University of South Wales in Environment Conservation Management by undertaking a research project in Honduras in Central America in June.

She said: “I have days where I can’t walk, am in excruciating pain, suffering migraines and black outs.

“But I have not let it get in the way and I refuse to give in.”

The project in Honduras will see her join the charity Operation Wallacea, with supports the conservation of species in remote locations globally.

Her research concerns the diversity and abundance of fish species present in coral reefs and how it is affected by humans.

She explained that her research could help preserve the British reef systems and support research in the Great Barrier Reef.

Miss Long, from Croesyceiliog, has put in £1,500 of her own personal savings towards the trip but still needs £3,500 to participate.

She said: “My motivation to continue everyday despite how I’m feeling is to save the planet.

“I’m determined to work in conservation, but I’m getting concerned that I won’t be able to take part in the project because of money.”

She now hopes that locally businesses will come forward to help her raise the funds to go on the trip.

She said that from the age of five she knew that she wanted to save animals and growing up she was fascinated by David Attenborough and watching his documentaries.

Since being diagnosed with the conditions in the last two years, she has learnt ways to cope so that she can continue her work.

She said: “Sometimes I have to take naps, sometimes I struggle to sleep, and some nights I can sleep for 16 hours straight.

“But I’m determined to get to Honduras and now need support in raising the money.”

To help Miss Long email her on long.charlotte.c@gmail.com