On Sunday 26^th April I shall be lining up to run
the London Marathon, or at least aim to complete it in a manner that is not in
breach of the rules. I am running in aid of the Multiple System Atrophy Trust
(MSAT), a charity that I feel privileged to support. Running the marathon and
raising as much money as I can for the Trust is my small way of attempting to
acknowledging the aid, advice and guidance that they have provided for my
brother, Keith and his family in the years since he was diagnosed with the
condition.

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a progressive
neurodegenerative disease, often initially mistaken for Parkinsons Disease.
Unlike Parkinson’s, MSA is recognised far less and I believe raising awareness
of the disease amongst those who know me, and hopefully further afield, is an equally
important reason to be running in support of MSAT as well as raising funding.
Please take a moment to read a little more about MSA at the Trust website here:

https://www.msatrust.org.uk/

It is a cliché, but a very valid one, when I say that I
cannot begin to describe the personal toll that MSA has taken upon my brother and
his immediate family. The disease has affected Keith both neurologically and
physically and I have heartfelt admiration for the way that he, his wife
and  family remain upbeat on a day-to-day
basis whilst confronting each necessary lifestyle adaption with an undiminished
sense of humour – a trait of Keith’s that I believe MSA will never impact upon.

I hope that, with a 
little more understanding of MSA and its impact upon those affected, you
will feel it worthwhile to offer a small donation to the Multiple System
Atrophy Trust and help it continue the excellent work it is currently
undertaking in supporting individuals like Keith and their families and
pursuing a, so far elusive, treatment for the condition.

It would also be great to see you on the day if you can take
the time to come along to the marathon and show your support. I would be very appreciative
of - and no doubt requiring of - as much encouragement as you can muster!