Thanks so much for your support. I am turning a delusional sign-up to run 13.1miles into a great opportunity to raise money for SURF, the Spinal Unit Recreational Fund.

In 2020, I spent a long 5 weeks on the Spinal Ward, recovering from paralysis caused by Transverse Myelitis. Despite the pandemic restricting a lot of SURF's regular activities, they supported myself and my family during my stay in hospital and even when I was discharged.

They are a small charity based at the Yorkshire Region Spinal Injuries Centre at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, consisting of ex-spinal patients, current staff, medical professionals connected with the spinal unit. All of the events and support they provide are funded by donations so every little bit helps massively.

They provide a varied and extensive number of events that take place both on and off the spinal unit. These events and activities promote and assist newly injured/spinal issue patients to come to terms with their disability, showing by example that although it may be different, life can still be fun and active despite a spinal issue.

Examples of events include trips to the seaside, the cinema, the races, and local dining restaurants. They provide over 12 fun activities each year and pay for a meal out. If required they provide an adapted coach for transport to our events, as many attendees are wheelchair dependant They also arrange many events on the ward too for inpatients, such as fish & chips, pizza nights, quiz nights and games nights. They also provide much needed physio/rehab equipment for patients' personal use, as well as toiletries to make the often lengthy hospital stay just a little bit nicer. SURF also organise for in-patients and staff to receive Easter eggs and other seasonal gifts throughout the year. All of these have a huge impact on in-patients lives, providing positivity in what can be an extremely difficult time.

They are a fantastic charity that can do much with the money donated, and I'm proud to be supporting them.

From JustGiving: Once you donate, we'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.