Mark Maddox is running the London Marathon on Sunday as a show of defiance against a disease which will ultimately cost him his life.
Since his diagnosis two and a half years ago, Mark has been unflinching in his determination to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.
With the support of the Merseyside Branch of the MND Association, the 40-year old father of three has shown the sort of fight and commitment that marked him out as such a competitor in his days as a professional footballer.
Having learnt of his prognosis in November 2010, Mark has completed a range of events that includes the Liverpool marathon, a sky dive and the release of a single with his band Last Of A Dying Breed.
Entering the London Marathon while living with Motor Neurone Disease and despite the strict advice of medical professionals, will be yet another achievement for a man who refuses to let the disease beat him.
‘I can’t wait. I’m really excited to meet all of the other people running for the MND Association’ said Mark.
‘After my diagnosis I thought I would just really enjoy Christmas, since then I have tried to make the most of everything.’
The Association is hugely grateful for Mark’s ongoing support and for the awareness that he is able to bring to a disease that kills over 5,000 people every year.
‘Mark is a truly inspirational guy. He was the keynote speaker at our national staff conference this year when he left everyone laughing and crying in equal measure’ said the MND Association's Chief Executive Sally Light.
‘Anyone who knows Mark will know that the chances of him not crossing the line in London are pretty slim, such is his determination.’
Mark is hopeful of beating his Liverpool marathon effort by registering a time under six hours. He has already raised over £15,000 for people affected by MND and says he has no plans to stop.
‘I either let it beat me or I fight against it. I’m fighting against it.’
You can read Mark’s candid account of life with MND by clicking here and support Mark’s marathon effort by visiting his Just Giving page.
If you have been inspired by Mark’s story and would like to raise vital funds for the Association, visit our fundraising pages for more information.
20/04/2013
