A WARRINGTON husband whose wife lives with multiple sclerosis (MS)’ is completing 26 Miles on the SkiErg to raise vital funds for the MS Society.
Gym owner Andy Bretherton, age 47, will be completing the marathon from his own gym, Fighting Fit on May 30 – World MS Day. He is aiming to raise over £2000 to help everyone affected by MS feel connected and supported from home.
The reason Andy is taking on the challenge is because in April 2019 his wife Shelley was diagnosed with MS after suddenly going blind in one eye overnight. Shelley’s continued symptoms include vision and mobility problems. Andy says the MS has had a huge impact on both of their daily lives.
More than 130,000 people live with MS in the UK. It damages nerves in your body and makes it harder to do everyday things, like walk, talk, eat and think.
Shelley had Blood Plasma Exchange treatment at the Walton Centre in Liverpool where she continues to receive her MS treatment.
She said: “I am forever grateful that I regained most of my vision but I would do anything to find a cure to bring my mobility back so that we could have a normal life again”.
Training for the challenge is going well so far and Andy is currently building up to 20 miles distance at one time. So far, Andy’s just giving page has raised £1665, but he is aiming to get it up to £2000.
Martin Mears, head of community and events fundraising at the MS Society, says: “We’re so grateful to Andy for his generous commitment of time and energy to take on this challenge for the MS Society.
“More than 130,000 people live with MS in the UK and the money raised from this challenge will help us to continue funding life-changing research and supporting all those affected by MS. We wish Andy the best of luck!”
