There are two women in my life who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's in their 60s. The first was my late Granny who growing up had a huge impact on shaping the person I am today. I owe her so much! I watched this sneaky disease take parts of her life away from her bit by bit eventually leading to her passing away earlier than she should have. The second is my Mother-in-law who was also diagnosed in her early 60s and is fighting hard to keep its progression at bay. I watch my young boys care for her as she has lost some of her movement when they spend time with her and it takes me back to my experience with my Granny.

So this challenge is for Sylvia and Trish. I love and admire you both.

It strikes me that we know so little about how to prevent, manage and cure Parkinson's and so in April 2024 I am running the "Toughest Footrace on Earth". The Marathon Des Sables. To raise awareness and much-needed funds to support the work of Parkinson's UK.

The challenge at a glance:

-250+ kms (156 miles).

-5 stages over 6 days.

-A long stage of 80+ kms (52+ miles).

-Self-sufficient, with water rations.

-Temperatures of more than 50°C.

This is going to hurt (and that's just the training for it) so thank you for your generous support.

All the best, Ben