Daughter laces up for the London Marathon in memory of her mum

Becky Bovey is clocking up the miles for Muscular Dystrophy UK, the leading charity for more than 110,000 children and adults in the UK living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions, at this year’s TCS London Marathon on Sunday 26 April.

Becky, from Paignton, Devon, will join more than 50,000 runners to complete the marathon. She is running in memory of her mum, Beverley Newnham, who sadly died last year, and her uncle, Grahame Young, who both had myotonic dystrophy, a genetic condition that typically affects the skeletal muscles, which are used for movement.

Becky said: “My mum was diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy 26 years ago and following this, my two uncles were also diagnosed with the same condition. It robbed my mum’s quality of life and stopped her from doing what she loved. She used to play hockey and netball for our county and was really active. However, it left her unable to walk or live an independent lifestyle and she had to rely on carers to help her with the simple things towards the end.

“We sadly lost my mum unexpectedly at the beginning of May last year. She passed away due to complications from myotonic dystrophy. We also lost my uncle, Grahame, three years ago who also had the same condition, and my other uncle now has very reduced mobility. I want to run the London Marathon in memory of my mum and for my uncles and raise as much money as possible for a charity very close to my heart.”

The 34-year-old, mother-of-one, is taking part in her first marathon and is hoping to cross the finish line in under five hours. Becky said: “Running the London Marathon itself means so much, not only did I grow up watching it every year with my mum - pointing out the best fancy dress! - but it's something I never thought I’d ever be able to complete. I was never a sporty kid and did everything I could to get out of sports at school! 

“After watching my mum and my uncle Grahame's health deteriorate over the years, I knew it was something I could do. I want to raise money to help other people who live with a muscle wasting condition - ensuring they get the support they need to live their lives to the full.

“I was excited to tell my mum I had applied for the London Marathon so she could keep an eye out for me on TV. Unfortunately, she died five days before I found out that I got a place in the marathon to run for Muscular Dystrophy UK.

“It has given me even more drive and motivation now to raise as much money as possible. The running has kept me focused through what has been a very difficult time. I'm proud to wear my Muscular Dystrophy UK running vest on my long runs. I’ve even travelled to London from Devon to meet other charity runners and run a half marathon in preparation. I can’t wait for the big day.”

To support Becky’s fundraising in memory of her mum, visit JustGiving.com/page/becky-bovey-1

For more information about Muscular Dystrophy UK visit musculardystrophyuk.org or call the free helpline on 0800 652 6352 (open Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm)