It is nearly 10 years since the doctors told me that I should give up my trainers for good and now with only a few months to go, I will be taking part in the London Marathon.

This is thanks in the main to the support I have received from LOSS running club, which I joined a couple of years ago and my fellow like minded running buddies. 

Even when out on those cold, snowy, dark nights, I find myself greatful to be fit of body and mind to be able to make the choice.  

To say thank you for LOSS' support and to show support to a great organisation I have decided to raise money for the clubs chosen charity The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

The terms 'muscle disease', ‘muscular dystrophy', ‘neuromuscular conditions' and ‘neuromuscular disorders' all describe a large group of conditions which affect either the muscles, such as those in the arms and legs or heart and lungs, or the nerves which control the muscles.

There are many different types of muscular dystrophy. Different conditions affect different muscles. The severity of conditions and how they affect individuals varies greatly from person to person. Most conditions are progressive, causing the muscles to gradually weaken over time. People's mobility is affected and most conditions lead to some sort of disability.

Muscle disease affects babies, children and adults, both males and females, and all ethnic groups. Conditions can be inherited or occur out of the blue where there is no family history.

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has pioneered the search for treatments and cures for 50 years. They are dedicated to improving the lives of all children and adults affected by muscle disease.

They reply almost entirely on voluntary  donations and that's where you come in. The money we raise will help to continue the charities vital work.

Providing free practical and emotional support

Funding world-class research to find effective treatments and cures

campaigning to raise awareness and bring about change

awarding grants towards the cost of specialist equipment, such as powered wheelchairs

For more information on the amazing work done by The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign please visit www.muscular-dystrophy.org.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.