I was fortunate enough to win a ballot spot for the London Marathon 2019, and anyone who knows me will appreciate that this will be a challenge, I am not a runner. 

Ive been told it is virtually impossible to get one of these 'golden tickets' so my plan is to completely smash it and take the opportunity to raise a s#!t load of money for a very worthy charity. 

I am running for MND Association but my target is my own, not set by anyone else, and every penny you can spare will help reach this/completely surpass it hopefully! It will also help give me the motivation to run the 26.2 miles ahead of me on the 28th of April.

Lets start with the basics, MND is life-shortening, the cause is unknown and there is no cure. 

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) describes a group of diseases that affect the nerves (motor neurones) in the brain and spinal cord that tell your muscles what to do. With MND, messages from these nerves gradually stop reaching the muscles, leading them to weaken, stiffen and waste. 

You may not have heard of this disease but Im sure most of you will have heard of, or even taken part in, the 'ice bucket challenge' which received a huge amount of press as it went viral on social media back in 2014. It was started with an aim to raise money and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease in the UK, and ALS as it is known in the USA. It is one of the most successful social media charity campaigns.

I too knew very little until people close to me were diagnosed (yes more than one) and you see and hear first hand how this disease affects not only those suffering, but their loved ones too. 

Ive known Becky for 7 years and her husband/complete love of her life Mike, was diagnosed with MND in late 2016 at the age of 42. From being a fit and healthy rugby playing dad, he is now faced with the daily battle of this disease. Yet despite this he is also doing all he can to raise money for MND Association and my total will form part of his Grand Total.

Please take a moment to read Mike's blog, and get a small insight into his life after diagnosis.

http://www.painintheals.co.uk/blog/ 

It is his courage, determination and positivity (whilst also always bringing the humour) that has made me want to do more to help. 

This is why I have chosen to raise money for this charity.

As I said, there is no cure, however there is lots to be done to help ensure a better quality of life as the disease develops, The Motor Neurone Disease Association focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with or affected by MND.

One day a cure will be found, lets help make that happen.

Anything, big or small, helps, and I thank you in advance from the bottom of my heart. 

If you fancy a trip to London on the 28th of April, any supporters (and the odd packet of jelly babies) will be greatly appreciated 

Running number to follow!

Steph xx

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