Introduction
There are approximately 639 muscles in the human body. Muscles are one of those things that most of us take completely for granted. In the past I certainly have. The reality is it is impossible for us to do anything without muscles. Absolutely everything we do involves some form of muscular activity.
One of my friends at work, Tony, recently found out both his sons have Muscular Distrophy. Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a genetic condition that over time gradually causes the muscles to weaken. This leads to an increasing level of disability.
There are several different types of MD, with different symptoms and patterns of progression. The progression of MD varies, not only between the different types, but within them as well. Some genetic mutations can cause a milder version of the condition, and some will be more severe. Children with Duchene MD may be in a wheelchair by the age of 10, and the condition can be life-threatening by the age of 30. Treatment can help with the physical disabilities and cardiac problems, but cannot cure the condition. New research is looking into ways of repairing the genetic mutations and damaged muscles, but it is still in the early stages.
To help support Tony & his family I have decided to embark on a series of challenges to help raise awareness of Muscular Dystrophy & to raise monies to help Tony’s family. Some of my coached athletes have also offered to help support these twin aims through their own sporting endeavours. This is fantastic. If anyone else would
like to become involved in this way that would be amazing. Thank you.
When I am actively embarked on a 'Challenge' a map tracking my progress will appear below. The marker may move slowly. This is likely to be indicative of my pace, rather than an issue with the tracking device ;) In the meantime you can read about the challenges I have completed to date and my next planned challenge by clicking on the link below.
If after reading the above or any of my accounts you feel motivated to make a donation to help meet the extraordinary care costs faced by Tony & Jenn for Alfie & Archie this can be done via PayPal (marchantfamilytrust@gmail.com). Thank you.
gearsandtears.com focuses on the delivery of individual training plans for endurance athletes. These have a proven track record & pedigree. Put simply, they work. They have helped many athletes achieve their goals, improve their times & explore their limits.
