I am running the 2019 London Marathon for the MS Society, a cause close to my heart. Please support me, and together we can stop MS.

Multiple Sclerosis is a very debilitating neurological illness and I have seen the impact first hand. My sister, Julie, was diagnosed with MS when she was just 24 but looking back, the symptoms started in her teens.  She has been living with MS for over 30 years and unfortunately she has the progressive version of MS which means she is getting worse over time without any periods of remission.

The most obvious impact is the loss in the strength of her legs and fatigue. In the early days, this just meant walking slowly. Over time, it has severely limited her ability to walk unaided and she now has to use a wheelchair or mobility scooter for anything other than a very short walk.  There are many other impacts which affect different parts of the body in different ways, all of which make life increasingly challenging for Julie and her family.  The great news is she has a very supportive husband and two wonderful children but it cannot be easy for any of them.

Julie is not alone. There are more than 100,000 people and families living with MS in the UK today.  There is no cure for MS and despite all the great progress made with research and drugs to treat some symptoms, there isn't yet anything which can materially improve life, or alter the course of the disease, for those with progressive MS. This is where the MS Society comes into its own.  It funds hugely important and exciting research with a vision of a world free of the effects of MS.  In addition, it provides invaluable support and information to those who are diagnosed and suffering, not just for the individual but also their close family members.

Of course, providing all of this requires a huge amount money.  So I am doing my bit, running the London Marathon when I am 50, to raise money for this really important cause.  Please, please support me and and together we can stop MS.  Thank you.