For my 29th birthday this year I will be running 29 kilometers to raise money for the Samson Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, in Surrey. 

This is a cause is extremely close to my heart as my amazing Godmother, Jackie, has been living with MS for many years now. Jackie has been supported by the Samson Centre and she had summarised the importance of it in her own words below:

"I often have to remind myself how fortunate I am to be living close enough to benefit from all that the Samson Centre offers. Having physiotherapy at whatever stage of your MS makes such a difference. And for me personally it is huge. It is what helps keep me mobile and my body more comfortable. In addition to physiotherapy there are lots of other activities: all sorts of different group classes, a gym, talks and social events. Something for everyone. One might think going to a Centre with people at all different stages of MS might be depressing. No. Quite the opposite. It is a lovely friendly atmosphere with plenty of laughter and chatter. One picks up all sorts of useful information, advice and ideas. And we have so much in common with the other people who come. We understand each other. The Samson Centre has to support themselves through fundraising. So if you felt able to support this cause that Sophie has chosen with a donation that would be wonderful. Those of us who use the Samson Centre will be very grateful." 

What is MS?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. MS symptoms often include loss of balance, stiffness and speech problems, while other symptoms can include fatigue, pain, and problems with mental health and memory. For many people, MS gradually gets worse over time and people find they need more and more support. There is no cure for MS, but there are lots of different treatments and alternative therapies available which help relieve symptoms. These include exercise, physiotherapy and oxygen therapy, which are all available at the Samson Centre. (The Samson Centre for Multiple Sclerosis. (n.d.). What is MS? [online] Available at: https://samsoncentre.org.uk/what-is-ms/ [Accessed 17 Apr. 2022].) The Samson centre offers help for people at all stages of MS. Their support ranges from physiotherapy, oxygen therapy, gym sessions and wellbeing. 

The Samson Centre is completely self-funded, with no support from the government. It relies on people to findraise for it. Please show your support by donating. Thank you!