As the son of an orthopaedic surgeon, I have always been aware of the significant burdens sufferers of musculoskeletal diseases can carry. I am also aware of the vital work that Joint Action do in funding the research that can lighten these burdens.

I am not able to directly better the lives of those suffering in the same way my dad and his colleagues do with joint replacements and other surgeries, however, I see this as an incredible opportunity to contribute to their cause. 

When running the London marathon on behalf of Joint Action I will be carrying a tree. More specifically, a metre-high model of the Tree of Andry: a symbol for orthopaedics used around the world. It will be a small burden in comparison to millions of those battling musculoskeletal diseases but my hope is that it will provoke questions, increase awareness and ultimately raise funding for this brilliant charity!