My Challenge

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page.  I'm planning to run the Virgin London Marathon, on April 25^th this year to raise money for the Sarah Matheson Trust.  This is going to be an incredible challenge for me, not only training to be able to complete the 26.2 mile course, but also not being able to drink alcohol until April 26th!!!  I have now completed two half marathons (13.1 miles), my god I have to double that...plus I've unluckily torn my cartlidge I won't be letting this stop me and I WILL be there on Sunday 25th April, hopefully you’ll appreciate just how much I am having to push myself here.

In 2002, David Mead (the husband of my mum’s dear friend Christine) was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA).  The disorder, over the past 7 to 8 years has transformed him from an active, outgoing, man who really was getting the most out of life to someone who could no longer care for himself, leave his home and only speak / communicate with the aid of a specialist computer.

MSA is a relatively rare progressive degenerative adult neurological disorder which causes problems with movement, balance and automatic body functions.  Very little guidance and support is available.

The Sarah Matheson Trust is working to change this, it supports people living with, and caring for, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA).  The charity provides free information, support and education services and sponsors research.  Initially, they help prepare all concerned for the years ahead by explaining how the condition will impact, and then go on to provide constant support and advice - including help when making decisions to assist the patient.

This is a terrible disorder and any help that can be provided for carers and sufferers alike is vital, along with further funding of research.

I'm running a tribute to David and Christine’s courage, and to help others in a similar situation in the future.  Please dig deep and sponsor me online and help me help this trust to increase awareness of this disorder.

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Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me, Sarah Matheson Trust for Multiple System Atrophy will receive your money faster and, if you are a taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Thanks so much for taking the time, wish me luck xxx

                                                                                                                                                                Updated 23 March 2010