Abbie Raises Awareness for Huntington's Disease After Uncle's Struggle

Abbie is running the Ipswich Half Marathon this September to raise awareness for Huntington’s disease, a genetic condition that affects the nervous system, causing movement, mood, and cognitive problems.

10 years ago, Abbie’s family was struck by a tragedy when her Uncle Neil was diagnosed with the disease. Having worked as a chef in the Royal Navy (he once cooked a cake for the queen!), Neil is now in a care home at the age of 49, and is now entirely dependent, requiring round-the-clock care.

However, Neil has retained his sense of humour, as well as his love for his family, particularly his son Thomas.  

Despite being a complete beginner, Abbie is running to raise awareness for the disease after seeing her family affected.

“I run for Neil, for my family, and for my mum who witnessed her father and now her brother be destroyed by the illness...Running for Huntington's is so important to me, to my family, my amazing uncle Neil and everyone who is affected by this illness”