Over the past few years, I have been on a journey to try and improve myself through exercise - largely riding bikes and running. For me this looks like a series of challenges and amazing adventures. Which is great.

Sadly 4 years ago Multiple Sclerosis took my Dad - I watched the disease slowly take his life over a 20 year period. Every day throughout that period was a challenge for him, my Mum, and my family. As each year went past, new challenges and struggles presented themselves to my Dad - but these weren't fun or adventurous, they were struggles and hurdles that took all of his courage and strength to overcome. His life, and the way he fought every new destructive symptom was inspirational to me. He lived these years with a smile on his face - never complaining. 

I complain a lot, on the bike and when running - and these are things I have volunteered for! Thinking of Dad helps to put some real perspective on what really constitutes a challenge...

Last Sept I watched the Great North Run on TV - as ever I found it inspirational. I got to thinking maybe I should do it for the MS Society, I then got to thinking that anyone who knows me will know that it would not pose the greatest of challenges... 

So I thought, "maybe I could ride to Newcastle, then do the Great North Run" - and so there you are, a challenge was born. 

Except not only am I doing it, but I've managed to rope in 50 or so friends to do it with me - amazing. We call it the Race Against Tyne - for some this will be the hardest 4 days they have ever endured, for others less so. But one thing is for sure - for none of us will it be as hard as the day - to - day struggle living with Multiple Sclerosis is. And so in our 4 -  day challenge we can perhaps contribute to the great work the MS Society does day to day in helping those who fight the horrible disease day in day out.

If you can, please give generously. I hate asking, but this is a big challenge and a really great cause.

Thanks

Davey