Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.  I'm delighted to have won a ballot place to run my first full marathon and to have the opportunity to raise money for a small local charity that is close to my heart. 

Tay–Sachs is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder. In its most common variant (known as infantile Tay–Sachs disease), it causes a progressive deterioration of nerve cells and of mental and physical abilities that begins around 7 months of age and usually results in death by the age of four. There is no known cure or treatment.

The CATS Foundation (Cure & Action for Tay-Sahs Foundation) was established in 2011 by Daniel & Patricia Lewi.  Their daughter was diagnosed with Tay-Sachs at 15 months and at the time there were no UK based charities dedicated to providing support for families affected by Tay-Sachs.  The CATS Foundation's main focus is supporting families affected by Tay-Sachs whilst also raising awareness of the disease.

The charity provides a support network, respite trips and vital equipment so that a sufferers quality of life is as high as possible.  The CATS Foundation also provides funding to the research team who are investigating a potential treatment for Tay-Sachs. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.