The Robert Sinclair Davidson Foundation is a charity, founded by my brother before his death, offering financial support to young couples and families who have been affected by life threatening and terminal illnesses.

My brother Robert was diagnosed with ALS motor neurone disease in 2015, at the age of 33. A sports fanatic, Robert used to go to the gym four times a week, and loved playing squash and football. Despite the loss of mobility in his limbs, and no longer being able to speak, Robert used his wheelchair and computer to continue working as a lawyer and remain socially active as ever. Within a year of his diagnosis, Robert and his wife were blessed with a beautiful baby daughter. Robert passed away in December 2016, after an illness fought with great courage, dignity and humour.

Not exactly the athlete myself, I suppose as some sort of psychotherapy, I decided to run the New York Marathon (thanks everyone who suggested it and subsequently backed out!); from never doing any exercise, I obviously first bought all the gear and up to the treadmill I came, I saw...and I pretty much threw up blood after 10 minutes! In the last 11 months I have run in the freezing cold, in the searing heat, in the dark, at 4am, at 10pm, in lightning (thanks Tampa), in snow, in the most unsafe parts of Baltimore (the fastest I ever ran!), I have been plagued by injuries (rupturing my Achilles on completion of the Pittsburgh half marathon), I'm missing 4 toenails, I started eating salad (!), I have run a cumulative total of nearly 500 miles....with Rob on my mind every step. It's been uphill...in both directions, but now with November 5th fast approaching -I am ready!

So please consider sponsoring me as we aim to fulfil Robert's enduring wish to help other young couples and families going through similar circumstances to take back some control in their life. Living with a terminal illness, or caring for someone who is, can put a strain on finances. A serious illness or terminal diagnosis can affect everything. From help with money worries and grants for specialist equipment to providing some much needed respite, The Robert Sinclair Davidson Foundation exists to provide financial support to those who need it the most.

The Robert Sinclair Davidson Foundation believe passionately that life doesn't end when illness begins

www.robertsinclairdavidsonfoundation.org