Help me support Muscular Dystrophy UK

I'm running the 2025 Great North Run for Muscular Dystrophy UK, which supports people living with neuromuscular conditions and their families, and works for better care and treatments.

Over 110,000 people in the UK live with one of more than 60 different neuromuscular diseases. It is often challenging for those affected to find support, information, and high quality care; it is also difficult to develop effective treatments for these rare diseases.

This is where MDUK steps in:

• It provides support and information for those living with muscle-wasting conditions and their families - not only about their condition, but also in areas such as navigating financial support and employment.

• It funds research grants and provides accredited training for healthcare professionals, to support the development of improved treatments and access to high-quality care.

• And it campaigns to raise awareness of these rare conditions (including amongst decision-makers) and build community - because together we are stronger.

Why MDUK?

MDUK's work is important to me for several reasons.

• Several of my family members have been diagnosed with muscle-wasting conditions in recent years.

• Since 2010 I've seen the positive impact of their work firsthand: before and after my PhD I worked on international rare disease research projects for neuromuscular diseases in the UK and Germany.

• The focus of my PhD - working with powered wheelchair users to explore their experiences of access and mobility - was driven by the work of the MDUK young campaigners network at the time, Trailblazers.

Please help me reach my target!

I am trying to raise at least £1500, i.e. £100 per year since I first started working at what is now the John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre in Newcastle.

After two years where my participation has been prevented by injury, I would be very grateful for any support you can provide!