Hi everyone,

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. 

Some of you may know about the recent news of the health of my step-dad, Dave. In late June 2019, Dave was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. MND affects 1 in every 300 in the UK. As per the nature of the illness, his diagnosis has been a shock for us all with some difficult times ahead to consider.

But with quick wit and excellent attitude, he’s certainly not letting this get the better of his spirits. For anyone who knows Dave, his positive ‘can-do’ attitude means his time is always well spent if it’s helping others. Dave has to be one of the kindest and most caring people I know, proof of which is demonstrated in his life-long career as a Paramedic for the NHS (whilst drinking copious amounts of tea of course).

Admirably, he has been a pillar of support to me and my family for over a decade and I very much see him as another parent. He has been so generous in the most important years of my life; helping me through university, making long journeys without a second thought, teaching me to drive, and supporting me in my trip to Rio in 2015, which was an incredible volunteering experience. Whatever the weather he’s always there adding a silver lining, without judgement or hesitation, and I can’t thank him enough for that. 

I wanted to start this page by taking a leaf from Dave’s book, to see the bright side and do what I can to make a difference for others. So I’m running 10 miles in the Great South Run on 20th October, in aid of the MND Association. I’m so pleased to be fundraising for a charity which supports families like ours, but I can’t do it without you!

The MND Association provides a community of support and care, whilst funding important research to bring us a more detailed understanding of prevention and potential cures. Anything you can donate, big or small, would be really appreciated.

Thanks so much for reading.

Ellie x