Last March I had completed the training, packed my bags and was all ready to go to the Sahara to take part in the Marathon des Sables. Then…a positive PCR test. Covid stopped me in my tracks. I was gutted but vowed to do it next year and now next year is here! 

My fundraising target for Parkinson’s was smashed last year, so many of you have been so generous, thank you. Many of you this year have asked to donate so I’ve updated this page to try and raise even more for Parkinson’s. 

The Marathon des Sables is a gruelling multi-stage race in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments, the Sahara Desert, where temperatures might be up to 50 degrees. Physically, it is six days’ running over 250 kms (156 miles - roughly 6 marathons) across sand dunes, rocky hills and hot salt plains, carrying what you need to survive on your back. It has been regarded as the ‘Toughest Footrace On Earth). 

It sounds terrifying and I am terrified! For me this definitely isn’t a race, I want to see what I’m capable of both physically and mentally. For those that know me well know that it’s totally out of my comfort zone, all of it, the camping(!) the heat, the exertion, the exhaustion, the list goes on…

I just want to complete this thing and I’m determined to give it everything I’ve got. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Anything you can give will help Parkinson’s UK to continue the amazing research work they do in looking to find a cure for this cruel disease.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.