Family and friends, most of you already know my family’s story. For those of you who don’t, as the rest of the world was preparing to celebrate the millennium, we were trying to come to terms with the devastating news that our dad had motor neurone disease. We didn’t know much about MND back then but we knew dad wasn't going to be with us for much longer. As with all things in life, he faced it with determination and courage and never lost his sense of humour. He fought so hard and never gave up but, despite his battle, we lost dad in May 2001.

MNDA (NI) were a great support to dad and us as a family. Dad was so grateful for all their support and started planning a fundraiser event but unfortunately he was no longer with us when the event came around. Twenty five years on from his diagnosis seems like the right time to do something for those living with MND in memory of our dad, Frank (Francie) Keenan. I hung up my running trainers four years ago so I’m going to dust them off and will be running 31 miles throughout January to help families affected by motor neurone disease. We know from experience that your support will make a huge difference.

Every penny counts in the fight against MND. The money raised will provide care and support for people living with MND and their families and carers. It will also fund vital research to help better understand the disease and bring us closer to finding a cure.

Thank you for your support.