MPA Independent Financial Adviser, Chris Wheeler, completed Challenge 29 back in February and raised a whopping £965 for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) charity, the MS Society.
After receiving his own MS diagnosis over six years ago, the charity which works to fund world-leading research, share the latest information and campaign for everyone’s rights, is close to his heart.
The Challenge 29, “Short month Big Challenge” encouraged people to get walking rolling or strolling to stop MS throughout March. Everyday Chris ran or cycled for 29 minutes to back the cause – some days easier than others, with a few misjudged timescales and trickier than expected hills causing challenges. Despite this, he still achieved a couple of personal bests for 1 and 5km and covered 220 km in total.
On a Facebook post to thank everyone who had supported him in smashing his £100 target by raising a then £750, Chris said: “Well, I really was not expecting or could ever imagined how generous people would be. I can only say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated, it means a lot and you have all helped make a difference.”
In another positive turn of events, as a result of the fundraising, a professional contact Chris had known for years got in touch and shared their own battle with MS. Since then the two have spoken and compared notes about their stories, finding unexpected support.
The ultimate vision of the MS Society for a world free from the effects of MS. Its ultimate goal is to find treatments for everyone. Until then, it is working to make sure no one has to face MS alone. Everything it does is guided by people with MS.
For more information on the work of the MS Society and for ways to get involved, visit: https://www.mssociety.org.uk/.