Thanks for visiting my JustGiving page.

I am running the Great North Run to raise money and awareness for Mucopolysaccharide (MPS). The MPS Society provides professional support to children, adults and families affected by MPS, Fabry and related Lysosomal Storage Diseases and funds research into treatment and therapies. These diseases are rare, genetic, life-limiting conditions.

Our good friends sadly lost their son to this condition, this is his story -

Jake was diagnosed with Hurler Syndrome (MPS1H) at 9 months following months of illness. His only chance of survival at the time was a bone marrow transplant to replace the enzyme that was missing in his body causing his condition. He commenced his chemotherapy at Manchester Children's hospital aged 14 months and then when his own bone marrow had been suppressed received his transplant. Unfortunately he developed a condition called graft v host disease which was his body rejecting the donor bone marrow and he passed away on 6 May 2002 aged 16 months. The MPS Society provided us with information and support throughout this process and continue to offer bereavement support to our family if it is required. They also do research into treatments and hopefully eventually a cure for this terrible illness.

Throughout his illness Jake remained a happy, much loved child and we cherish every precious minute we had with him.

As most of you will know, I am not much of a runner so this will definitely be a challenge! Whilst moderate training has started, there is a long way to go. I will be turning 50 just a couple of weeks after the GNR, so this is a memorable way to acknowledge this milestone in a city that is very close to my heart.

If you could spare a few pounds that would be much appreciated!

Thanks

Tim