20 years ago, my Mum died from Motor neurone disease (MND). MND is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting.

MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. Her speech was gone within 18 months, eating/drinking not long after and her ability to do anything for herself gone within 3 years.

My Mum lived with the effects of this dreadful disease for an unprecedented 9 years and the MNDA were a crucial part of keeping her comfortable on that journey. They were a huge support for us as a family too.

My Mum was a most formidable woman and very proud. The charity helped her to retain her dignity to the very end.

I wonder how anyone can endure such a cruel disease...Simple things, like scratching an itch or shifting position in bed...

There is currently no cure for MND.

Back in 2005 I made my first fundraising effort for the charity by taking part in this event. On the 20th anniversary of her passing, I'm running the Other Half of my marathon. It's a celebration of turning 50 and embracing life whatever the future holds, and honouring her memory.