Hi,

Thank you for taking the time to visit my fundraising page.  I have just completed the London Marathon on 26th April 2009.  I finished the course in 4 hours 12 minutes and 30 seconds.

It was partly a 'fun' personal challenge that I've been considering for a while and also a serious fund raising activity to raise funds for some kids that really need our help.

Please take a few minutes if you can to read about Amy and her friends at www.amyandfriends.org.  These kids suffer from Cockayne Syndrome, a terrible illness for which there is no treatment available in the UK.

Cockayne syndrome (also called Weber-Cockayne syndrome, or Neill-Dingwall Syndrome) is a rare autosomal recessive congenital disorder characterized by growth failure, impaired development of the nervous system, abnormal sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), and premature aging. Hearing loss and eye abnormalities (pigmentary retinopathy) are other common features, but problems with any or all of the internal organs are possible.

Amy and friends raises money to help these children by paying for travel and accomodation to allow them to receive essential treatment in Boston, USA along with activity to raise awareness and create a center of excellence within the UK.  They also help the children meet up for mutual support and to take part in research work into their condition. 

I have done the difficult part by running 26 miles (...and 385 yards) if you could support me by making a donation to this charity.  Your donation will be passed immeadiately to the charity for them to benefit.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Amy and Friends 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!

Thank you for your support.

Mike