Alison’s marathon mission

My name is Alison, and I am running the 2022 TCS London Marathon with my husband, Lee. I was not long ago diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS) after suffering several symptoms that just didn’t add up to me.

Once I’d received my diagnosis and got my head around the fact things may change for me at some stage, I decided that whilst I’m still in the position to do so, there were several things I’d like to do. I’ve gone back to school and I’m training to be a counsellor, which is why MS-UK stood out to me, as the helpline will be vital to many many people.

I then decided along with the support of my husband to challenge myself and run the London marathon where MS-UK were kind enough to give us 2 places. This will be a massive challenge as I literally do not run.

Training has just begun, and it isn’t easy, but along with my friend whose also my PT and the support of my family and friends I know it is possible. We set up our just giving page on the 24 January with a target of £4,000 and we exceeded that target in five days.

I knew our family and friends would be generous, as a lot of them didn’t know of my diagnosis but to say we were blown away was an understatement and the words of encouragement have been amazing. We still have a charity night organised for June, which a kind friend who is in a local band has offered to do to support us and we know it will be an amazing night and will add to our total money raised.

We’re very excited about the next few months however daunting but stick with the mindset that whatever challenges you have in front of you with a positive mind and the support you need around anything is possible.