I am aiming to complete my first ever marathon on 12th May 2024 to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.

I have been inspired to do so by my friend, Adrian (Aido) who was living with this debilitating condition and sadly passed away earlier this year. I met Adrian 20+ years ago when he started dating, and then married, my University friend, Cathy. Sharing interests in sport, pubs, tech, cycling and beer, we became good friends and had a dozen or more holidays with our two families.

It's was around 3.5 years back that we were devastated to hear Adrian had been diagnosed with MND. We remained close as families and so we saw some of the practical and emotional impacts this had. Adrian, Cathy and their 3 children dealt with it with a dignity, fortitude and resilience that has been awe inspiring.

Last May, Cathy coordinated a large group, 'Team Aido' to run the Rob Burrow 1/2 marathon in Leeds. I took part and ran with Cathy, finishing in Leeds Rhinos Stadium, with Adrian in the stands to greet us.

Last year was my first time doing a 1/2 marathon and this year I've decided to do the Marathon. I'm slightly daunted, but am determined, thinking about Adrian every time I train. Cathy is running the 1/2 again along with my wife, Suzanna, and other friends of Adrian.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a rapidly progressing disease where messages from the brain gradually stop reaching the muscles, leading them to weaken, stiffen and waste. MND is a life-shortening illness, it is not known what causes it and there is currently no cure.

The MND Associations vision is a world free from MND. Your help and contributions will make a real difference. Thank you for your support.

Aaron