I'm running 10k a day for a week, ending with 10 miles, to raise money for MDUK...

Most of you will know I work for Muscular Dystrophy UK, the charity for 70,000 people in the UK with a muscle-wasting condition. The charity supports people and their families, campaigns for change, and funds research into treatments for the 60 rare and ultra-rare conditions.

Like many charities at the moment, MDUK's finances have been massively affected by Covid-19. We have had to cancel or postpone a number of our events that generate a substantial amount of income, and estimate we will lose £2.8m as a result. Sixty percent of employees are being furloughed, and the remainder are taking a 20% reduction in pay and hours.

This all comes at a time when the charity is needed more than ever. Many of the 70,000 people with a muscle-wasting condition are at high risk of getting seriously ill from coronavirus and need support. March was one of the busiest months of the year for MDUK's helpline, with 38 percent of calls related to the virus. More people than usual also visited the website, looking for guidance and support.

The charity is looking at ways to weather the financial impact this is having on us. One example of this is our annual Oxford Town and Gown 10k — which last year, along with the other Town and Gown event in Cambridge, raised more than £279,000 — which is going virtual. And I've decided to take on the challenge. 

From Monday 20 April to Sunday 26 April, I will be running 10k a day for MDUK for the first six days, and then 10 miles on the final day. I've always credited running with improving my mental health, and it's been even more of a lifeline over the past few weeks. As I prepare to go on furlough I expect it will continue to play a big part in maintaining a little bit of normality, so it seems fitting I use this as an opportunity to raise funds for a cause that means a big deal to me.

I know things are difficult at the moment for so many people, but no donation is too small. And if you can't do that at the moment, I would appreciate a share or mention. 

Thanks so much, and stay safe.

Laura x