Firstly, a big thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page, and an even bigger THANK YOU if you donate!

My story, is a bit different to most, in that I've become a little more involved with Muscular Dystrophy than I expected!

You see, I started to work as a personal assistant and carer for Russ, about three and a half years ago, and before that, if I am honest, I didn't know much about Muscular Dystrophy (MD) or the effects that it has, or indeed how prevalent it is!

Through Russ, and his type of Muscular Dystrophy, which thankfully isn't as severe as some types, I became aware of Muscular Dystrophy UK and their work in researching a cure for this condition. At the most severe end of the spectrum, MD causes people to become weaker over time, and it severely limits their physical abilities, and can often lead to a shortened lifespan.

With your support, I intend to give them as much of a financial boost as possible for their vital research into research, prevention and treatment.

This research is vital, as I know with the right treatment and support, people with Muscular Dystrophy can lead mainstream lives. Although Russ's condition isn't as severe as it could be, he still relies on full time carers and equipment, but with the right support he can do anything! Together we've travelled to Paris and Japan and had holidays across the UK! I've also supported Russ to run his own companies, being his pair of hands when needed, and his chauffeur on may occasions!

With this support Russ can achieve everything in life he wants to and live as main stream a life as possible, and through research into treatments and by providing support and advocacy to other people with MD, Muscular Dystrophy UK can give everyone with MD the same quality of life Russ has. This is why I am running for Muscular Dystrophy UK.

As some of you may know, I've completed the Coventry and Birmingham Half marathons. These are 13.1 miles, and although I trained hard for them, they were still very tough! Now I'm plannning to do the Full 26.2 Miles!

I've got from now, 18th July 2016 until the 23rd of April 2017, a mere 279 days, to get myself in shape! To put this into perspective, and to give you an idea of the task ahead, I've de-trained somewhat, and a 5 mile run is an effort at the moment!

So, to do this, I'll be running, training, eating healthily and working my legs off! In addition though, Russ will be doing the training with me! Unfortunately health and safety rules won't let him into the Marathon, but he'll have run the training miles with me, with the aid of a special battery pack trailer manufactured by his Dad (www.dadinashed.com) especially for training!

We'll keep you updated with a progress diary and information on how we are doing, hopefully you'll see improvements!

So please, to support Muscular Dystrophy UK to continue their work, to motivate me and Russ to train, come wind, rain or shine (mostly the former, it is the UK!) dig deep, donate what you can afford, and help us to meet our target.

A big thank you for all your support!

Daniela