My name is Richard Watson and I
have a slight obsession for physical activity. I have negotiated mud in
ToughGuy and I have summited the hills in north Wales for the SF10 MARCH. 2017
marks the start of a new and exciting challenge I am undertaking. I will be
swimming the Solent from Ryde to Mainland on the 18^th July.

As with most of my physical
challenges it is not only the opportunity to seek new adventures, but to raise
funds and awareness for worthwhile causes. This year I have decided to raise
money for the Ian Pratt MND foundation, which is a charity that raises
awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. It not only does this but the Ian Pratt MND
foundation supports families that are affected by this disease. One particular
aspect of this foundation that is different from the rest is ‘100% of funds
raised go directly into fulfilling charitable objectives, we do not spend donations on salaries, as
we do not have ANY PAID STAFF. We don’t lease cars, buildings or equipment.’ (http://www.swimmingthesolent4mnd.com/ian-pratt-mnd-foundation/)

Motor Neurone Disease is a
‘progressive’ disease that effects the communication between the brain and the
nerves, and to the muscles. Without effective communication it can affect
day-to-day life, resulting in an uphill struggle to perform what we would consider
to be trivial tasks. As quick as 6 people in 1 day can be diagnosed with Motor
Neurone Disease, 6 people will die in one day as a result of this disease (source: https://www.mndassociation.org/what-is-mnd/brief-guide-to-mnd/).

I myself have recently experienced
the effects of limited movement and feeling like I am in a ‘shell’. My uphill
struggle was similar to Motor Neurone Disease in some ways. However, the most
significant difference was I made a recovery. This does not happen with Motor
Neuron Disease and I cannot begin to imagine what it must feel like. I would
like this to not only raise funds for the Ian Pratt MND foundation, but
awareness for Motor Neurone Disease and similar conditions that limit people in
living their lives.

Thank
you for your support and your contribution