Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. 

The daughter of my good friend Tim Woodward; Octavia Woodward is the inspiration for my challenge. Born with SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) Octavia has limited mobility, but in her determination not to be limited by her disability, she has undertaken some extraordinary challenges including skiing, abseiling and horse riding. She is an inspiration to the rest of us and the key driver of the launch of an appeal in aid of SMA research. 

On 31st July I will be taking part in the London Tri-athlon which by happy coincidence is Octavia's birthday weekend. See www.thelondontriathlon.co.uk -  When compared to some of the amazing things that Octavia has achieved this challenge pales into insignificance. However, whilst I think I'll get away with the cycling (40km) and my running (more of a10km shuffle) will do, swimming (scarily close to doggy paddle) for 1.5km's in open water is going to be very, very challenging! I am certainly no fish and have had to resort to swimming lessons (the first since I was an 8 year old). My swimming instructor and my family helpfully advise me that I have a long way to go.....

 

What is The SMA Trust?

The SMA Trust is the only charity in the UK dedicated to raising funds for research into Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). SMA is the leading genetic killer of toddlers and babies. SMA affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord, causing muscular weakness, severe disability and premature death. 50% of the most severely diagnosed cases result in death by the age of two. 1 in every 40 people carries the gene that causes this disease (around 1.5million people in the UK).

 

What is the momentum Campaign?

The charity has launched an appeal, the momentum Campaign, to raise £2million for more research into SMA. Researchers believe they are tantalisingly close to finding affective treatments. There has been some considerable progress in research into SMA around the world in recent years and the charity wants to build on, and maintain, that momentum. SMA is currently incurable and untreatable. Research is hope for families affected by this disease.

 

How are we raising money? 

As part of The MAD! Challenge ((Momentum ADventure World Challenge) we are trying to raise £1 million this year for The SMA Trust's Momentum Campaign. Children with SMA are undertaking challenges and then challenging their team members to undertake their own challenges.

 

 

What can you do? 

 

Huge donations are always welcome, but every pound makes a difference, no amount is too small.  ALL contributions will go directly to the SMA Trust and hence to funding research. 

If you do not wish to use the internet then please send cheques payable to The SMA Trust, Compton Scorpion, Shipston on Stour, Warwickshire CV36 4PJ

Otherwise donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure.

 

 

Thank you!