Sophie Ward joined the Royal Marines Band Service in 2020 and served as a flute and saxophone player in Collingwood Band. She met her husband, Rich, in training and they married in April 2023.

After some concerns about her health last year, and some lengthy investigations, Sophie was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in January 2024, aged just 26. She has been incredibly resilient and defiant of her diagnosis, never giving up and never letting its progress get in the way of enjoying life. However, the speed of her deterioration is shocking.

Members of the RMBS will be undertaking their own #26forSoph challenges. Individually, or in small teams, they will complete a challenge of 26 “somethings” for Sophie.

This might be running 26 miles, collectively cycling 2600 km, or walking 26000 steps a day. Some will be climbing 26 mountains, while others endure 26 hours of rowing.

The choice is up to them. Check out the individual team member pages to see what challenges are being undertaken in Sophie’s name, or check out their Instagram account for updates: @26forSoph

Funds will be split between the RMA - Royal Marines Charity (70%), Dorothy House Hospice Care (15%) and Motor Neurone Disease Association (15%)

The RMA - The Royal Marines Charity have been providing personal and financial support to Sophie and Rich since Sophie’s MND diagnosis. Dorothy House have provided valuable respite care to Sophie and her family. The MNDA is a national charity which provides support, education and funds research into MND.

In the interest of full transparency, the RMA – The Royal Marines Charity will be collecting in all donations initially. Once the campaign ends, funds will be distributed to the other charities, 15% each. All GiftAid will be retained by the RMA - The Royal Marines Charity, as dictated by JustGiving policy.

Follow for updates on FB and Instagram #26forSoph