I was already pencilled in for a Half Marathon in Palermo Sicily, I have decided to make this race a fundraiser for FND and Alder hey childrens hospital, specifically The Neurological rehab unit. This was after I was made aware of my work colleague’s daughter, Amelie had been diagnosed with FND.

I found out about Amelie’s accident at school through Fiona’s good friend Claire. I was so shocked at the time, and I asked Claire to pass on my best wishes to Fiona and Amelie. It was then I decided to organise a just giving page to help raise awareness and funding. FND was a condition that myself and work colleagues where not aware of.

FND is a problem with the functioning of the nervous system and how the brain and body send and receive signals. Physical and/or psychological risk factors can cause functional symptoms which include a variety of physical, sensory and cognitive symptoms that have yet to be explained by a recognised disease. Functional Neurological Disorders are considered to be multifactorial, which means many different risk factors can contribute to the development of the disorder. The symptoms are real and can cause impairment in quality of life that is similar to and in some aspects worse than other neurological conditions.

FND is considered as a rare disease, However, the exact prevalence is unknown, and the mechanisms which cause FND continues to be poorly understood. Half the donation made will be going to FND Hope (FND Hope - FND Hope International) FND Hope International is the first and only global charity for people with Functional Neurological Disorder.

I’d like to give a very special mention to Amelie who is such a brave strong girl you’re a credit to your family. Id really love to think I can match my PB at Palermo but considering the heat sub 2 hour or to complete is also good. I think the pride of running for such a great cause will give me all the inspiration I need. I’m into my training plan now and that includes hot weather training in Turkey. But has they say no pain no gain, but it will be worth it, many thanks to everyone in advance for their kindness and donations. #Palermo24hereicome 🇮🇹 🏃‍♂️