10 years ago on 11th July, I was diagnosed with MS. With the realisation of how this disease could affect me, I found my self on the door step of this MS Centre in Bedford. My first experience here set me on my life journey, living with this cruel debilitating disease, making many fellow friends along the way.  

The ethos, support, kindness and understanding of all who are involved in the running of such a place, has given me the strength to accept my situation, the courage to face my roller coaster of a future ( I'm unsure of ) how I'll be effected long term, face on. 

This Centre CANNOT be taken for granted. Without funding they simply would not be open. It's an inspiration of diverse treatments, to help all stages of MS along with Counselling, MS Nurse, Gym, Hyperbaric Oxygen, to name a few and our Communal Area could not survive. Here, it's a necessity for all MS patients. 

Our Centre is our hub we call home. Many a time I watch my friends who have deteriorated some what - smile, laugh, enjoy the company of others. It gives them a sense of purpose with out feeling disabled in a society who can't understand how it feels to endure this condition. It brings tears to your eyes. 

I need to help my comrades, especially for all those who do not have the capability to fund raise any more. Due to covid, alas the funding has slowed somewhat. It costs over 400,000.00 yearly to run. I would be devastated if I got to the stage where I had no one to help me carry on awareness in my later stages of MS.

So I want to accomplish this swim for them. For everyone to be able to come back to a fully working abode that benefits their mental health, along with the capacity to help them selves, with the struggles MS brings. The fight is constant. Pain never leaves you.

It's going to be tough, as I get tired quickly. But it's a small price to pay, and isn't forever. 

21 miles in 3 months over 4 days @32 lengths ( 1/2 mile). 

Who am I to deny a happy heart. 

I understand its been a trying year financially for many. So I ask you to put yourself in the shoes of others. Would a financial gift from yourself really change your monthly outgoings? If not, then please contribute to help me help others and make their days more bearable. I'd really appreciate the support. 

 I thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Much love.  X