Hi everyone,

Yes, I'm doing it again, I'm determined to get that hip replacement and have signed up to do the London 2012 marathon. BUT, there is a huge reason, and that is to raise money for the Myasthenia Gravis Association.

I'd never heard of it until a number of years ago when my father became ill and started losing the use of his muscles for no apparent reason. Always hard working and strong he suddenly found walking to the shops became a struggle or even chewing food was seriously difficult. After suffering with the problem and doctors being unable to find a medical reason he decided to see a specialist as the condition was steadily getting worse.

It took a while and after what became a terrifying year or so of the unknown he was finally diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis. At last we had an explanation... and a prognosis meant we could decide a treatment.

His disease is now under control through a careful balance of various drugs but unfortunately some people suffer in far worse ways. Without our muscles we are unable to walk, breathe, smile, frown, chew.... basically anything. Some people have to have machines to breathe for them because their muscles simply fail, thankfully not my dad.

Please please help me raise some money for this very important cause as MGA have given me a marathon place on the condition I raise £1500 and I thank you with all my heart for anything you can donate.

Hellcat xxx