Plymouth man to run 250km across the Sahara Desert for Parkinson’s UK
A man from Plymouth is running the ‘toughest race on earth’ in April to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK.
Bill Martin, 55, is running the Marathon Des Sables, where he will run over 250km in seven days whilst carrying everything he needs, including food and sleeping gear, in his backpack.
Setting himself a £10,000 fundraising target, Bill decided to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK as his father-in-law, John, was diagnosed with the condition 15 years ago.
Bill said: “John is 80 now and I’ve seen first hand how Parkinson’s has affected him over the years. Parkinson’s is a difficult condition to deal with, everyone experiences it differently and it’s progressive, meaning that it gets worse over time. It’s important to me to fundraise to help find a cure for this horrible condition.”
Bill has taken on marathons and ultramarathons in the past, but this will be his hardest challenge so far. To prepare for the Marathon De Sable, Bill has implemented a strict training program, running at least 30 miles per week.
He said: “The distances don’t phase me, I’m more worried about the heat and running in the sand. So, I’m working with a personal trainer on improving my strength, endurance, and preparing as much as possible for the race. I didn’t expect to enjoy the training as much as I am!”
Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, Heads of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We are so grateful to Bill for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson’s UK.
“With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.
“We hope that this fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us - from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible."
To support Bill on his fundraising challenge, please visit www.justgiving.com/william-martin19
To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising
