Nearly sixteen years ago Gerry was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. The prognosis seemed bleak at the time as decline can be rapid and there are no recognised treatments available on the NHS. Gerry has been self funding himself and attending The Solent MS Therapy Centre in Hewitt Road, Portsmouth, once a week since then to breathe pure oxygen in a Hyberbaric Chamber, the theory being that the myelin sheath around the spinal column will repair itself more quickly. This centre has provided Gerry with a lifeline and, coupled with his positive outlook to life, he is still upright and mobile.....even if he isn't running any more! 

Gerry has raised thousands of pounds over the years for the centre, which is run entirely as a charity. He rode his exercise bike (in our garage) from Lands End to John O'Groats; he rowed on a rowing machine (at the gym) across The English Channel and down the River Loire through the wine regions tasting several vintages en route. These were, of course, virtual trips. Our good friend John Pike also raised a large amount by competing, for real, in The London Marathon....oh, his poor knees did suffer!

Now Gerry feels it's time for his 'Pacemakers' to take over. His team is made up from our sons Tom and Will, our daughter in law Lori, our nephew Sam and three friends Rebecca, Charlotte and Ben........all fit, young Londoners who will relish the idea of competing in their favourite city to raise money for the centre. Rebecca, John Pike's daughter, has taken on his mantle and has even agreed to run on her birthday. Now that noble gesture has got to be worth a bob or two!

I know there are plenty of worthy causes and I bet, like us , you have already dug deep into your pockets to support one or two already this year. Any amount, small or BIG will do. If you would like to find out more about the centre here is a link.

http://www.smstherapycentre.org.uk/

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Edith.