I am an Associate Professor in neuropsychology in Lille (France), and I work closely with rehabilitation teams at Saint-Philibert Hospital. My work explores how multiple sclerosis can affect cognition, emotions and everyday life — but also how rehabilitation, movement and physical activity may help people maintain their abilities and quality of life.

The connection between MS and movement is central to my research. I have contributed to research examining how physical activity, physical fitness and exercise may influence the cognitive and emotional symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. In one of our current projects, we are developing a home-based rehabilitation programme that trains the brain and body at the same time.

Physical activity is therefore not separate from my professional commitment; it is a natural extension of it. I am a committed runner and a board member of Run’in Club (@run_in_club), a French Athletics Federation-affiliated club with around 150 members. I know how sport can support physical and mental wellbeing, build confidence and bring people together around a shared goal.

Running the London Marathon for MSIF is the natural meeting point between my scientific work, my clinical commitment, the people with MS I work alongside and the sport that is such an important part of my own life.

My connection to MS began through my profession, rather than through a family diagnosis. Over the years, however, it has become a deeply human and long-term commitment. I regularly work alongside people living with MS, listen to the challenges they experience and involve them in the development of our rehabilitation projects.

I would never claim to speak from their lived experience. But their needs, priorities and ideas shape the questions I study and the solutions we try to build. I do not want simply to work on MS. I want to continue working with the people whose lives are affected by it.

I chose MSIF because MS is global, but access is not. Access to an early diagnosis, specialist care, effective treatment, rehabilitation, reliable information and support can still depend heavily on where someone lives.

MSIF connects organisations and communities across borders so that knowledge, progress and support can reach further. That international mission strongly reflects what I believe: advances in MS research and care should benefit people everywhere, not only those fortunate enough to live near the right services.

My goal is to raise at least £4,000+. By donating, you are not simply supporting me across 42.2 kilometres. You are supporting a global movement working to improve the lives of people affected by MS worldwide.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @beatrice_runs_for_msif

Every donation, every share and every kilometre can help move this cause forward.