My beautiful friend Gemma developed a debilitating neurological disorder which often makes day-to-day tasks impossible. I have watched her become increasingly ill over the last three years. It has been heart breaking.

Gemma has been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This is a brain network disorder which creates problems with how the brain receives and sends information to the rest of the body. You cannot control it. There is currently no cure.

Gemma has constant pain, difficulty speaking, tremors, seizures, and paralysis episodes. She walks with a stick or needs to use a wheelchair.

When she is able, Gem is fundraising for FND Action, whose mission is to promote awareness, support affected individuals, and advance research for prevention, treatment and recovery. The cause of FND is unknown, and even though it is listed as a rare disease, it is the second most common neurological condition to be treated in neurology departments, even more common than Parkinson’s disease.

I wanted to help Gemma with her fundraising. That is when I decided to set myself a challenge, This will be to continue a park run each week for another year 28 park runs around the North East and the others at Blackhill, lead 2 park run take overs, a bake sale, run 5 half marathons and my first marathon.

I would be very grateful if you could help us to raise the profile of FND and help me in raising vital funds to support ongoing research and awareness.

Thank you for reading and for your support.