Ride For MND 08

Motor Neurone Disease is a debilitating neurological condition that affect the nerves in the brain and spinal stem that control voluntary muscles. As the nerves die out, the muscles waste and atrophy, spreading from the hands and feet to the arms and legs. Speaking and swallowing can also be impaired. Once the diaphragm is affected, breathing is restricted. Motor Neurone Disease is fatal and has a prognosis of two to five years. There is no cure. There is no treatment. Two months ago I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. However, there is some hope. Research has been progressing rapidly and the identification of Riluzole as a medication to extend lifespan by three to six months has thrown up many clues and avenues for research into how this disease is acquired and how pharmaceuticals can be used to treat, slow and finally halt the progression of symptoms. Since diagnosis, I have been touched by the number of people who have offered their help and heartbroken by the response I have to give, "There's nothing we can do." Well, I've decided we've got to do something. Helping the researchers of this condition may help me. It may not. But I'd like to help whoever is diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in future. On the weekend of 3 and 4 May 2008, I am going to cycle from Amsterdam in the Netherlands to London in the United Kingdom and hoping to be sponsored with all funds being donated to Motor Neurone Disease research. But I need your help. I can't train, organise, fundraise, publicise and, most importantly, ride alone. So, please get in touch, get involved, get training, make a donation and pass this page around!