For many years I have enjoyed running.  A lot of people think that it is in my genes and they wouldn't be wrong.  Many of my family members are runners but my greatest inspiration is my uncle John, known to many as Johnboy, who had a very successful career as an endurance runner.  He ran many marathons and ultra marathons but his greatest achievement was when (aged 48) he won the West Highland Way Challenge in Scotland, running 95 miles non-stop in 18 hours and 8 minutes.  Cruelly, for a man so passionate about exercise, he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. He lost his battle in September 2018, just two and a half years after he was diagnosed. 

I am lucky to enjoy the same mental strength as Johnboy and love nothing more than an endurance challenge.  At age 12, I took part in a 40km (25 mile) all-terrain hike, and just before lockdown I increased this distance to 60km (37 miles).  Given how much I love running, it seemed natural that I would enter a road race and I started to think about running a marathon.

My London Marathon dream was born after a conversation with my mum where I mentioned that I'd like to run the race as soon as I turned 18, only for her to tell me how it was 'absolutely impossible' to get a place via the ballot.  Challenge accepted!  I applied, knowing I stood very little chance of getting in the first year I entered, but my luck was in and I got a place in the 2021 race, taking place just three months after my 18th birthday. 

Training is underway and I'm clocking up the miles.  I would be very grateful for any donations, big or small.  Thanks in advance.  Your support is much appreciated!

Ben.

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. However, not all symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order. Although there is currently no cure for MND, symptoms can be managed to help you achieve the best possible quality of life.

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