Twickenham woman running Great North Run for multiple sclerosis
11:00am Sunday 16th September 2012 in News By Rachel Bishop
Proud: Sophie Humphries is running for mum
A 24-year-old woman will take part in the Great North Run in honour of her mother, who has multiple sclerosis (MS).
Sophie Humphries, of Heath Road, Twickenham, grew up looking after her mother Jacqueline, 64, who contracted the disease 37 years ago.
Miss Humphries, a charity worker, has already raised more than £750 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society and completed 11 mile practice runs ahead of the half marathon on Sunday, September 16.
She said: “My mum’s very poorly at the moment, so the Great North Run is something positive from a very bad situation.
“My mum will be what gets me through the last few miles. The Great North Run has done wonders for my confidence.”
Miss Humphries, originally from Teddington, said she was usually not very athletic and had never done anything like running a half marathon before.
Her mother was 27 when doctors first diagnosed MS, an illness that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing problems with balance, mobility, eyesight, swallowing, memory loss and bladder control, among other things.
Miss Humphries’ mother is still without a cure nearly 40 years later. The Multiple Sclerosis Society has been funding research and supporting patients to help them live with the disease.
Miss Humphries, who aims to raise a total of £1,000, said the charity had been a huge help to her and her family during some difficult times.
More than 54,000 runners will take part in the Great North Run this year, with 413 representing the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Friends and supporters have been posting messages on Miss Humphries’ fundraising page to wish her luck for the big day.
Nicki Sharp wrote: “Soph you are a superstar! Run like the wind and we'll be waiting at the finish with a big cheer and a hug xx.”
To sponsor Miss Humphries, visit justgiving.com/hump2012.
