Back in March 2017, my dad was diagnosed with relapsing remitting Multiple Sclerosis (centre in photo), just a few months before I moved away for university. At that point, it was the first time we'd ever heard of it. It has resulted in significant lifestyle changes for the whole of our family, instead of long hikes in the peak district, we now go for a stroll around parks.

It was incredibly hard seeing the early stages of MS affect my dad while I was away, seeing quite big changes in his mobility each time I saw him. The MS trust was vital in providing information about symptoms, treatments and the prognosis for the future. It was reassuring to read the stories of the many other people around the UK living with MS. 

This is why I am running the Great North Run this year to raise money for the MS Trust so that they can continue to help families like ours. Please donate if you can.

The MS Trust is committed to ensuring everyone with MS can access the treatments and services they need and deserve. We aim to represent and reach all people affected by MS, from the moment of diagnosis throughout their journey. Your support will allow the MS Trust to continue to train health professionals. Approximately 103,688 people with MS live in areas where there are not enough MS nurses to look after everyone. So, The MS Trust are working with the NHS to fund new MS nurses in the areas that need them most and ensure people with MS have the care and support they need.