Thank you for visiting our fundraising page. 

Three mad scientists (Emma Watson, Rob Taylor and Helen Tuppen) and one sporty(!) solicitor (Emma Tuppen) will be attempting to complete the 13.1 miles of the Great North Run on Sunday 1^st October 2006.  In doing so we are hoping to raise money for Climb (Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Disorders), a small charity that provides valuable support and information to children, young adults, families and professionals affected by metabolic diseases.  The charity also funds research into understanding and developing cures for these debilitating diseases.

Metabolism is the means by which the body derives energy and synthesises, by enzymatic reactions, other molecules it needs from fats, carbohydrates and proteins we eat as food.  Metabolic diseases usually arise from inherited single gene defects, which affect the function of an enzyme or cause it to be deficient, resulting in either an accumulation of toxic substances or a loss of substances vital for life.

Metabolic diseases include a broad range of illnesses such as cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy and Tourette’s disease.  One important subset of metabolic disorders are mitochondrial diseases, which are the focus of our scientific research.  Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell and genetic defects within these structures result in the inability to generate sufficient energy for the correct function of the affected cell and/or organs.

Collectively, metabolic diseases affect at least 1 in 4,000 people worldwide.  They can cause serious debilitating effects and in some cases can even prove fatal.  By supporting Climb, you will not only be helping to improve the lives of affected children and their families but you will also be helping to fund essential research into understanding these devastating diseases and developing potential cures.  Any donation, great or small, will be greatly appreciated.

If you would like more information regarding Climb and the diseases supported by this charity please visit www.climb.org.uk.

Many thanks for your support.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor us: Climb will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.