"My path to an MDS diagnosis is perhaps unusual. In 2016 I noticed that could not feel the top of my left foot. A visit to the GP plus a blood test resulted in an appointment at the local hospital."
After further tests, Alastair was referred to King's College Hospital where he was diagnosed. He is currently in a low-risk category, on watch and wait, with monthly blood tests and regular checks at King's.
A passion for running
I have always tried to keep fit with running, cycling, sailing and hiking.
In 2018, two years after my diagnosis, I celebrated forty years of running with a worldwide non-competitive social running club called Hash House Harriers having nearly reached a total of two hundred Parkruns. On that year I also run my very first marathon.
Since many patients are far worse off than me, I started raising more money to add to the charity funds, increase awareness and support sufferers of MDS.
Nothing can stop Alastair
In 2020, despite the pandemic, Alastair smashed his 2020 running target with one day to spare. In fact, after surpassing 2500km, he thought he could reach 4750km. Ultimately, he ran an incredible 4759km!
Beating his own record
Alastair said:
Thanks to everybody who supported me in 2020 when we raised over £1,500 against my running target of 4,000km.
2020 was extremely disappointing since almost all events were cancelled, however in 2021, I challenged myself to run three marathons in three weeks for MDS. The marathons were:
- 18 September: Fox Trail Marathon Surrey - 5h5
- 26 September: BMW Berlin Marathon - 4h28
- 3 October: Virgin Money London Marathon - 4h22
I have already run more than 3,600 km in 2021 and am posting all my results and progress on Strava: hpps://www.strava.com/athletes/425473
I am trying to raise more money in 2021 to add to charity funds. Now more than ever, the MDS needs funding since all charity and running events have been cancelled, so please donate any amount to help the MDS UK Patient Support Group - £2, £5, £10....
A big THANK YOU from MDS UK
Please continue to support Alastair as much as you can! Your donations are the fuel to his running engine!
We would like to say a big THANK YOU, Alastair, for your continued commitment to fundraising in these troubled times.
During this difficult time for MDS UK, it is essential that tenacious, adaptable fundraisers like Alastair are supported where possible!
Team MDS UK
Feeling inspired? please consider joining our 20for20 campaign too!
It is easy to do - and every pound raised will help our charity maintain our services to MDS patients, as we continue to struggle through the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Be our hero! Join our 20:20 campaign and fundraise for MDS UK
