3 years ago our Mum was diagnosed with what we thought was Parkinson's Disease. However, this diagnosis has recently been re-assessed as being MSA. (Us neither). And that's because MSA is relatively rare but initial symptoms are remarkably similar to Parkinson's.

So here's the Science Bit.

MSA (Multiple System Atrophy) is a progressive neurological disorder which leads to problems with movement, speech, balance and autonomic body functions. We're still learning as a family and so too is the medical profession. At present there is no known cause and unfortunately no cure.

The brilliant people at the MSA Trust want to change that. It is the only UK and Ireland charity supporting people with MSA along with their carers and family.

So why sling us some cash? Well, we've decided to climb Ben Nevis to try and raise some funds. We'd like to contribute to the work of the Trust and future research (as well as stick two fingers up in the general direction of MSA ). You can laugh at us as we haul ourselves up a mountain and repeatedly quote "it's only ten miles - how hard can it be?" (James) back at us AND sing The Proclaimers.

If that's not a good enough reason I'd also like to tell you that throughout the last 3 years my Mum has borne everything that MSA has chucked in her general direction with grace and an iron will never to give up. My Dad, her primary carer, continues to retain a sense of humour and incredible levels of patience.

So if you can spare us a few quid we'd be really grateful - and so would the MSA Trust.

Catherine, James and Henry.