There was a time before January 2017 when I would never have imagined writing this, and even after that day I could still run. 

And then November 2019 came and took my Boy Fitch away. The
result this time was far more life changing than previously and this stroke disconnected my left leg from my brain. This doesn’t sound too bad, and I am still very grateful to remain alive, I knew quite a few people that were taken by strokes far too early!

However, as a keen runner the result is that now I find it difficult to walk and need assistance from “Stick” my new BFF! 

I still get about and go to the gym a couple of times a week and do what I can there to maintain some level of fitness, although I guess it is maintenance really, some free weights and 10/15 minutes on a spin bicycle.

In fact, I see the walking to Splashpoint as part of my “workout”
I started running late in Life, ran my first marathon in London 2008 age 52, then a further 4 marathons, 2 more in London and 2 in Brighton and countless half's and 10K’s. I used to keep a
log of miles ran but I have mislaid it, but I recall the total was in the 1000’s. My marathon PB is 3hours 53 minutes, which is not under threat from my new endeavour!

And this this brings me to my point, I continually look for things which challenge me to, as much as anything, keep me sane! So I am embarking on a “virtual” marathon over 10 days in aid of SWAN UK. I probably won't be as fast as I used to be but it will be just as much of a challenge.

SWAN UK is the only support in the UK for families affected by a syndrome without a name - a genetic condition so rare it may never be diagnosed. Affected children can have lots of problems including learning disabilities and medical issues. Some will sadly die early leaving their families with no answers why.

To celebrate SWAN UK's 10th birthday, I'm taking part in the #10MyWay challenge to help raise vital funds so they can keep supporting undiagnosed families for the next 10 years. 

Please help if you can - you can find out more about the children you will be helping here: https://www.undiagnosed.org.uk/swanuk-news/news_category/family-story/.