I am running the Loch Ness Marathon on 24 September 2017. I would like to raise money to fund a mobile hoist for my sister, Sue, who is severely disabled with Primary Progressive MS.

Sue was diagnosed around 20 years ago. With progressive MS, there are no periods of remission and there are no treatments available to slow down or halt the progression of the illness.

Unfortunately for Sue and her two children, her symptoms and the severity of her symptoms progressed rapidly. Her marriage broke down shortly after diagnosis. Very early on, Sue lost the ability to walk or transfer. She lost bladder and bowel function, is now unable to speak and finds swallowing difficult. She requires care 24/7.

My parents (now in their 60s/70s) have looked after Sue and her children for the last 15 years or so, with the help of a small team of carers.

Because of her needs, Sue has been housebound for many years, unable to travel. A mobile hoist will enable my parents to help her to access the outside world once more, whether it be a simple trip to the seafront, to the local shops, to visit her daughter at University or to visit other family members.

Those of you who know Sue will know that she has endured this terrible, disabling illness with grace and humility. She has watched as her children have grown up, unable to play an active role in their day to day lives.

Those of you who know my parents will know what remarkable people they are - caring not just for Sue, but raising her children. They have never asked for any help or support and this is something I would like to do for them.

I would really appreciate any donation you are able to make towards the mobile hoist which I hope will dramatically improve the quality of life for both Sue and my parents. Who knows, maybe she could even take a mini break with her children - she has not been on holiday in over 15 years!

In 2012, I had a serious mountain bike accident and was told that I would never be able to run again. Over the last 18 months, with support, I have worked hard to get to a place where I hope to be able to complete the Marathon. The training is tough, my original injuries and surgeries mean that my body doesn't quite work in the way it might, but every step I take, I am grateful that it is a step that I CAN take.

I would really appreciate any donation you are able to make towards the mobile hoist - https://www.completecareshop.co.uk/moving-and-handling/molift-hoists/molift-smart-150-folding-hoist.

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