I'm running the Leeds Half Marathon on Sunday 11th May to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, because I want to help beat MND. MND is a rapidly progressing disease that attacks the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe.

Unfortunately I have had first hand experience of this disease as my Mum was diagnosed with MND in December 2017. She battled MND for almost 6 years before she passed away in November 2023.

I wanted to 'do my bit' and challenge myself to raise some money which hopefully can help in the battle to find a cure and / or to continue to provide magnifcient medical support to those who suffer from MND. I want to help the MND Association to achieve their vision; a world free from MND

I therefore decided to enter the Leeds half marathon which is even more poignant this year as this will be the first since the passing of Rob Burrow, who along with the support of the incredible Kevin Sinfield has really raised the visibility of MND over the last few years.

I am not a runner and have never been past 10K until I started training last year. It is definitely a challenge for me but I am determined to give it my best shot - having driven the course recently, it is very hilly and me and hills don't mix too well.......but the main objective is to raise as much money as possible. And for every £ raised upto £1,000, my employer will match it.

I would love your support, every penny counts.