As some of you know, I am running the London Marathon (13th April) for the first time this year for the Myasthenia Gravis (MG) charity or the Rag Doll Disease as it is also commonly known.

My inspiration was my achievement at the Round Cheltenham on the 24th June 2007 where I ran/walked….OK waddled 26 miles and 385 yards to be absolutely precise. So the bravado got the better of me when someone suggested I might be interested in the London Marathon – you know me I’m up for a challenge any time!

MG is a severe auto-immune disease characterised by fluctuating and sometimes fatal muscle weakness. Symptoms can vary depending on the amount of activity undergone, the onset of infection or stress of any kind. Activities taken for granted by most of us become difficult or even impossible at times for Myasthenics - simple things like eating food, lifting arms, speaking to friends or laughing.
Commonly known as the Rag Doll Illness, people who suffer from Myasthenia can be perfectly normal one moment and a few hours, or even minutes later, droopy and listless. It could happen to any of us!
It is a debilitating and life-changing illness but the MGA is working throughout the country, offering support to Myasthenics and their families, increasing public and medical awareness and raising funds, for research in order to find a better cure. Recent research has resulted in more understanding and better management of the disease but there is still no cure.
The Myasthenia Gravis Association (MGA) is the only voluntary organisation covering the UK and Ireland dedicated to providing support and advice to individuals and their families living with Myasthenia Gravis.
So, if you would like to donate please log on to www.justgiving.com/katekennedy2

Cheques to be made out to MGA and sent to Maria Brown 43 Dorset Way, Billericay, Essex CM12 0UD (Regional Organiser).

I appreciate you will receive numerous sponsorship requests but the charity really does excellent work and any donation would be greatly received.

If you would like to know more about MGA or would like to get involved why not visit their website http://www.mgauk.org/

A big THANK YOU to you all – even for just reading it.

If you are in London on the 13th April watch out I’m the one in the ball gown and tiara (if that remains in place) and I’ll give you the royal Kate wave!

Best Regards.

Kate