On 3rd April 2022, I will be running my first ever half-marathon in aid of the MS Society. I would welcome your support.

I must confess that until I met my husband (James), I had not ever come across multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the more my husband explained, the more I came to realise just how devastating it can be.

James' dad (Joseph) had multiple sclerosis throughout his adult-life until he passed away in 2008. While many of James' earliest childhood memories escape him, Joseph was able to walk without assistance when James was younger. Slowly but surely, the progression of his MS stripped him of many basic bodily functions and capabilities we take for granted. First his walking; then his hand and arm control; then his speech and eventually (because his respiratory system became impaired, and he was unable to fight off the flu) his life. Watching a loved one (let alone a parent) lose their autonomy at suhc young ages must have been incredibly hard for James and his siblings. 

I never met Joseph. I can only imagine that he must have been a good man, because alongside his brilliant mum and her second husband, James' dad helped to raise five children - all of whom fondly remember him. He has two grandchildren - both of whom carry middle names inspired by him. I spot in James many of Joseph's traits, and in Noah I see a lot of James and Joseph. Whether it's the disappearing, smiling eyes or the small elvish ears. 

In that spirit, I am taking on the longest run I have ever done to help fund research, therapies and treatments to help alleviate the suffering MS causes. It is one of the causes we have adopted because of this personal experience and would welcome any and all support you might be willing to provide.

Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference. The money you give, will be making a meaningful difference to thousands of people. Thank you.