I run (well jog) to keep fit and enjoy our lovely Yorkshire scenery. I am lucky. Others are not so lucky. Some people face paralysis and the terrifying diagnosis of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. 

In spring 2020 as we were all heading into lockdown, my very best friend's body suffered it's own lockdown. She was struck down with Guillain-Barre Syndrome and ended up having a lengthy stay in hospital being unable to walk and in indescribable pain. 

Whilst my friend was one of the lucky people who continues to make a great recovery, for others the pain goes on. To acknowledge the pain and unbearable suffering that those with the Syndrome, I wanted to give my body a sample of that agony. Hence I decided to do a Marathon. So on the 3rd October 2021 I will be doing the London Marathon. 

I have never ran more than a half marathon is it is going to be a challenge. But running 26.2 miles will give me plenty of time to learn how to pronounce Guillain-Barre properly! 

More information about Guillain-Barré syndrome - it is an acute autoimmune condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. It causes the nerves in the arms and legs to become inflamed and stop working, often leading to paralysis. An estimated 1-2 people per 100,000 are affected by GBS each year with a further 1-2 per 200,000 being diagnosed with CIDP, a chronic variant of the syndrome. About 80% of those with GBS will make a good recovery, but between 5-10% will not survive and another 10-15% may experience long term residual effects ranging from limited mobility or dexterity, to life-long dependency on a wheelchair.GAIN is the only national organisation dedicated to supporting people affected by these conditions throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland.