...but not as big as those faced daily by my cousin Matthew. Matthew is a a bright and amazing young boy but has a disability that means he will never do any of the things many of us take for granted like: get out of bed, walk, eat, talk.
Neurological conditions are the number 1 cause of death and disability in the UK, they are the biggest killer of men under 25 and the most serious sports-related injury you will ever face. Acquired Brain injuries are the most likely serious problem that young children will face. But what is seriously frightening, when looking at these stats are that if you sustain any damage to your brain and spine your chances of seeing a Neurosurgeon in A&E are 5%. Indeed, the closest neurosurgeon you will find in the Kent region lives in Bordeaux!
Strokes, Tumours ,Multiple Sclerosis, ME, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, Alzheimers, Parkinsons, Huntingtons, Autism, Dementia, ADHD are some of the major neurological conditions that you will recognise. Everyone is likely to know someone close who has been directly affected by one of these conditions without even seeing the full list...
The foundation provides invaluable 24 hour telephone support to people suffering from neurological conditions and their carers. They are literally the voice at the end of the phone that 95% people cannot get immediately and can give answers where there feels like there may be none and give ears to those during lonely and disorientating times.
I feel enormously priviliged to be one of 85 people selected to be part of the Daily Telegraph team (you will see regulary updates in the sports section of the paper) I am putting myself through the personal pain of 26 miles and believe me in my current state of fitness this is HUGE challenge!
As over 1 million people are disabled in the UK through neurological conditions, I know that when the going gets hard on race day I will keep running on behalf of all those people who are not lucky enough to ever take a step.
Please sponsor me and have a happy 26th April watching the race knowing that somewhere well behind Paula (and probably the Rhino) the person you backed is doing there bit. I promise to keep you posted with ever step of my 'not quite Paula' journey - the real London Marathon.
And for those who love an underdog I will leave you with one final thought...all 40 neurogical charities receive less than one cancer charity..so I don't ask that you rob Peter to pay Paul...just that Peter gets a share of the pie this year.
To celebrate the fact that you got out of bed this morning and could read this page (maybe whilst eating a meal unaided), go on, do your good deed of the day.
Thank you for visiting my fundraising page & do share with all those affected.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Brain and Spine Foundation gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
So please sponsor me now!
Emma Jones xx
