My name is Gemma, I'm 35 years old and live near Barnard Castle.

I have myotonic dystrophy, a muscle wasting condition. I'm very lucky that I don't have physical symptoms of the condition, but know its a progressive condition and might deteriorate at some point, this motivates me to keep fit and healthy. I have an active job as a housekeeper and love walking my 3 dogs. 

I have previously ran the GNR but I need a goal to encourage me to keep running, so decided to run it again for this fantastic cause. I want to raise awareness of muscular dystrophy. Sadly, my dad had myotonic dystrophy and died at the age of 54. He was very healthy, until the condition determined his ill health from his 30s. My older brother also has the condition, and is not in good health. Although I don't have physical symptoms, I am affected mentally, wondering if my health will ever deteriate. I have good and bad days, but try to have a positive outlook and try stay healthy so I'm in the best position if the condition takes over. The only positive is that, because I know I have myotonic dystrophy, I was able to have pre implantation diagnosis to prevent it from being passed to my daughter, and she is very healthy. 

I am feeling quite anxious about the GNR, but will fuel this in to my training. Having completed the GNR previously, I know the buzz of the day, which excites me!

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