My name is TJ Gibson, I am taking part in the London Marathon to raise money for the charity SMA uk. SMA UK supports families when someone has a diagnosis of spinal Muscular Atrophy ( SMA). SMA is a group of hereditary diseases that progressively destroys motor neurons—nerve cells in the brain stem and spinal cord that control essential skeletal muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing, and swallowing, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. There are 4 types ranging from 1-4, 1 being the most severe.

I have previously taken part in the Manchester half  Marathon in June 2022  and raised £671 to raise money for the recent diagnosis of my Niece Sienna, the Redcar half Marathon in October 2022  and raise £500 for SMA UK and now look forward to participating in the London Marathon in April 2023, again all funds raised will be given to SMA UK.

The reason for choosing this charity is I have a Niece, Sienna who is almost 1 year old, she has been diagnosed with SMA Type 1, currently recovering from life saving treatment Zolgensma a £1.79 million pound trial drug. As well, I have a sister Julia, she 30, who has been diagnosed with Type 3 from a very young age who is currently receiving an oral medicine recently approved called Risdiplam. These treatments will hopefully halt the deterioration of the nerve cells and give them both a better chance at life and longer life expectancy.

SMA is a cruel, rare disease that destroys lives every year and affects numerous families. Due to my family being part of this I would love to be able to give back to SMA UK for everything they have done for me and my family. This is a charity close to my heart. SMA UK have a certain % of funding towards the life saving treatments available that have changed my niece and sisters lives. They support them emotionally, financially and have surrounded them with amazing specialists and a loving community for support. Thanks you for your time on reading my family story any donate all add up and hopefully we achieve our target🙏