Running the 250km MDS for Mark Baigent

Life’s normal plan for many of us is to work hard, raise a family, then at the latter end of our working life, enjoy the fruits of our labour and look forward to a fun, active and exciting retirement. That was Mark's plan. Until December 2022 came around and his life changed forever with the devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease.

Mark is a devoted husband, father and grandfather who was just 59 years old when he was diagnosed with MND, a cruel incurable degenerative disease for which, despite extensive research, there is still no cure. Without a cure, the only hope is to support victims with physical therapy and do whatever possible to help make their life as manageable and enjoyable. But this all costs money.

Jack Blackmore is CEO of the fintech consulting company Audere Solutions. He has worked with Mark for several years. "On hearing the news, I was incredibly frustrated that such an illness could strike a man who is honestly one of life's true uplifters. Mark is forever positive, upbeat, hardworking, caring and funny. His stoic response to being diagnosed with MND is truly inspiring, and a reminder of the importance of keeping a positive, can-do attitude to life.”

Starting on 21st April, Jack will be running the Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 251 km (156 mile) ultramarathon in southern Morocco within the Sahara Desert. It is regarded as the toughest foot race on Earth. Yet, to Jack it has little comparison to the hardship that Mark faces daily; and will continue to face over time.

This is a fundraise for Mark; for an inspiring individual; for a man cheated of this time in his life; for a man cruelly struck down by this terrible disease for which we still have no cure. All funds raised will go directly to Mark to help him as he undertakes the toughest journey of his life. SO PLEASE AID THE FUNDRAISE & MAKE A DIFFERENCE!"

Mark hopes that with funds to cover the cost of intensive rehab, and the therapy he needs, that he can improve his mobility, maintain independence, manage his pain, and be able to enjoy a better quality of life.

Thank you for helping,

Mark, his family, friends and all those battling MND.