Paul’s Story

I am happily married, with four beautiful daughters, and now two grandchildren. I have worked all my life as a plumber and a facilities manager. Before diagnosis, I was training to be a driving instructor and had only one test left to complete.

I was diagnosed over a year ago with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), aged 50. Luckily for me, my diagnosis was straight forward. many are not so lucky, with repeated tests and uncertainty for a long time.

My symptoms initially were stomach cramps and being unable to complete simple tasks with my hands. I had to give up work immediately, including training to become a driving instructor.

Now, a year on, I am unable to eat, walk, or dress without support. Driving has become difficult, and I have lost much of my independence.

It has become clear that many people, including large organisations, and the local council, have little understanding of the impact of this disease. Physically, emotionally, and financially. An example of this is when a local social care occupational therapist suggested a hosepipe and paddling pool for my future bathing needs. Every step has been a battlefield - a fight to get the support we need. This stress has been on top of living with this devasting disease.

However, we have received emotional and some financial support from the MND Association - they have been very helpful on our journey.

We are completing this half marathon event to contribute to raising awareness and support for people living with MND - we want to do what we can to prevent others having a negative experience.

I consider myself and my family to be fortunate in that we have a fantastic support network. I am completing this half marathon on four wheels, my wife Kazia, my daughter Scarlett, and close friends Amanda and Carl, will be running (shuffling) alongside me.

Every mile matters. Every day, six people are told they have motor neurone disease (MND). There’s no cure. Not yet. That's why I'm taking on this challenge and I'd love your support.🧡

No matter how big or small, every donation matters. Thank you.

Thanks for visiting my JustGiving page supporting the MND Association.