In October 2017 Birmingham will be hosting its very own marathon, the first one (since 1985). So, having only ever run 1.6 miles previously (before collapsing onto the gym floor in a heap), I did something really daft ... I signed up for it.
As I undertake the herculean task of training for and running a 26.2 mile race, I will be thinking of 2 of the bravest people I've known, my Uncle Dave who had MS and sadly passed away in 2013 (it's amazing how much faster you can run when you picture your much loved Uncle hurling abuse at you from the sidelines), and our good family friend Rosemary who is suffering from her 2nd cancer diagnosis in 6 years (she, hopefully, will not be hurling quite so much abuse).
As I run I will be raising money for Mercia MS Therapy Centre in Coventry, a centre which has been there for both Dave & Rosemary during their illnesses and where they've both found support and therapy which has helped them greatly.
Mercia MS Therapy Centre offers a variety of therapies and counselling, all of which help to alleviate some of the symptoms and pain that sufferers of MS and other conditions endure. They also provide a place for people affected by MS to meet, share experiences, and to talk about their daily struggles and ongoing concerns. I have been able to see first hand what a great job they do, and how it really makes a difference.
They are entirely self-funded and rely on donations and fundraising to be able to provide the services they do, so hopefully those of you who know how much of an endeavour this is for me will be able to donate a few pounds in admiration of my efforts.
My training includes a 17 month training plan, hundreds of training miles, and a few races including Birmingham Half Marathon, Railway Ultra 19 Miles, Windsor Half Marathon, & Black Country to Birmingham Half Marathon.
It's been a tough journey so if you're even remotely impressed please do donate!
