This year on Sunday the 4th of October I will be running the Cardiff Half Marathon in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association and in memory of my papa who sadly passed away from motor neurone disease.

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a devastating condition that affects the brain and nerves, gradually stopping messages from reaching the muscles. Over time, people living with MND lose the ability to walk, talk, eat and eventually breathe. There is currently no cure.

My papa’s condition started when he was diagnosed with Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), a rare, slow-progressing motor neuron disease causing upper motor neuron degradation, muscle stiffness (spasticity), and weakness which further developed into MND. Overall my papa lived with PLS and MND for 13 years.

Watching someone you love go through this illness is incredibly difficult, and that’s why this cause means so much to me. By taking on the challenge of running 13.1 miles for the 13 years my papa lived with this condition, I want to help raise money to support people living with MND and to fund vital research that could one day lead to better treatments — and hopefully a cure.

Every mile I run will be in memory of my grandad and for everyone affected by this disease.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how big or small, it would mean a lot. Your support will help the Motor Neurone Disease Association continue their amazing work supporting families and funding research.

Thank you so much for your support — it will really help motivate me through the training and across the finish line.

Let’s make every mile count.