Huntington’s disease is an illness caused by a faulty gene in your DNA (the biological ‘instructions’ you inherit which tell your cells what to do). If you have Huntington’s, it affects your body’s nervous system – the network of nerve tissues in the brain and spinal cord that coordinate your body’s activities.

Huntington’s can cause changes with movement, learning, thinking and emotions. Once symptoms begin, the disease gradually progresses, so living with it means having to adapt to change, taking one day at a time. Living with Huntington’s disease can be very challenging. 

This horrible disease has severely changed the lives of the Wylie family (Roger, Brenda, Harry and Charlotte) who are very close to me. Roger was diagnosed out of the blue aged 52 and medically retired from his successful insurance career. Following Roger's diagnosis thoughts turned to my good friend Charlotte. Charlotte was tested and was found to be carrying the gene. Whilst the symptoms are not immediate the effects of carrying the illness took affect straight away. Carrying the gene caused pregnancy complications for Charlotte and extreme worry and anxiety. It has been very difficult for Charlotte to try and live a normal life knowing what might be just around the corner. Charlotte has been medically retired from her job aged just 32. To make things worse Brenda who is also Roger's carer was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Brenda went through multiple rounds of chemo and radiotherapy, this understandably took its toll and meant Roger had to go into temporary respite care whilst Brenda recovered. Following a mastectomy, Brenda has made a full recovery and Roger has returned home. 

I am running the London Marathon to support the Huntingdon's Disease Association (HDA). The HDA supports anyone who is affected by Huntington's disease across England and Wales. They pursue the best possible care; provide training & advice to families and professionals; raise awareness, and promote research towards better treatment and care. I am thankful for the support the HDA has provided to the Wylies and I hope to raise £100 for every mile so the HDA can continue their good work and support others. 

Thanks for reading and wish me luck.