Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon 2023

In May this year, I have decided to take part in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. As most people will know of me, I am not a natural runner. However, after seeing the inspirational work of Kevin Sinfield recently, I thought I should test myself by undertaking what I no doubt think will be the hardest physical challenge of my life.

I have decided to split all money raised equally across 3 charities and attach links to their respective websites for anyone who wants to read what they do in more detail.

Motor Neurone Disease Association - After watching the Rhinos for a number of years, it is truly heart-breaking to see what the effect of motor neurone disease has done to Rob Burrow. Despite the suffering which he has gone through, he is using his notoriety to increase awareness and raise funds so more research can be carried out into this condition. There are plans to open up a £5m state-of-the-art purpose built care centre in Leeds which will specialise in MND.

mndassociation.org/

Martin House - My employer, Azets, has recently partnered with Martin House and I recently attended a talk where I was touched by the work which they do. Martin House, provide family-led hospice care free of charge for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses. They allow families to spend time together in a comfortable surrounding which caters for all needs. They also offer a range of support services such as bereavement support and antental support.

martinhouse.org.uk/

Leeds Mind - Having seen the effects of mental health first hand, this is a cause which I feel is only recently getting the awareness it deserves. 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind every year in England. Leeds Mind promotes positive mental health and wellbeing and provides help and support to those who need it. They offer counselling, group therapy, social support, suicide bereavement support and mental health training amongst many other services. The money raised will be used to allow the charity to continue to run the above services.

leedsmind.org.uk/

I have barely scratched the surface with the amazing work that these charities do, but I am hoping that all money raised can have some benefit to those people who are in need the most.

Thank you all very much for your support and donations!

Tom