Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

On 2nd August I (along with my fab wife Claire) will be taking part in Total Warrior, an obstacle race in the Lake District, although race may be misleading as we just hope to survive in one piece. This short video gives you an idea of the obstacles we will be facing during the 10km course. http://vimeo.com/57747120 . Looks like great fun right??

Now for the serious bit! - These words from my sister will tell you why I will be supporting MNDA. 

"Those who know our family know that a couple of years ago our lives were turned upside down my husband John (now 47) started experiencing symptoms of spasticity and weakness in this arms and legs. He was having regular falls and found he was no longer able keep up the demands of his job as an HCA in operating theatres at the QE hospital Gateshead. I also left my job as a full-time nurse to become his carer and take care of my family. We ended up having to lose our home and move into adapted rented property. My eldest son had to move schools away from his friends.

After lots of tests, in October 2013 our worst fears were confirmed. John was told he was suffering from Motor Neurone Disease. Motor Neurone Disease or MND is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attack the upper and lower motor neurone leading to weakness and wasting of muscles. This leads to increasing loss of mobility in the limbs and difficulties with speech and swallowing. It is a terminal illness with an average survival rate of 2-5 yrs. There is no cure or effective treatment.

Having to tell my two boys that their Dad has a terminal illness has to be the most difficult thing I have ever had to do in my life and I know from what we will have to face it is going to get harder however we have a loving strong family and I am positive we will all support each other. The MNDA have been and invaluable help to us so far. Funds collected will go towards helping sufferers and families with MND as well as funding research to try and find effective treatments and cures. If I could have one wish in life it would be that a cure for mnd so others wouldn't have to through the pain, suffering and heartache we are all going through now"

MNDA, specifically the Tyne & Wear branch, have provided amazing support to my brother in law and his family, and I have requested that any money raised goes directly to that branch where it will be split between striving to find a cure and supporting those in the North East who are in need of assistance like John, Catherine, Adam and Ben.  Any donation, even 50p will make a difference. Thanks x

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