'I have MS and I keep on running' – Inverness vet to do London Marathon for Leonard Cheshire charity
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A vet from Inverness who has multiple sclerosis is running the London Marathon for Leonard Cheshire in Scotland to help other disabled people.
Lindsay Henry will be running with her brother Kenny Rochford, who is coming over from his home in the US, and raising funds for the disability charity.
She says the 26-mile run will be “a great birthday present” as she turns 35.
In 2014, Ms Henry learned she had multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive neurological condition. She is clear that the condition does not define her and has fulfilled her dreams as an equine vet surgeon after growing up as a self-confessed animal lover.
As a keen runner, her journey started when she explained to her neurologist that she could run 5km. After being advised to continue running, the distance increased to the point of half marathons.
The London Marathon on April 28 will be her biggest challenge yet and comes after runs in Inverness, Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Ms Henry also ran the gruelling Joshua Tree half marathon in November. Her brother Kenny felt inspired hearing about his sister completing long-distance runs, with the siblings now setting their sights on the London Marathon following the successful Californian event.
Keen to raise funds to support other disabled people, they hope to raise as much money as possible for Leonard Cheshire in Scotland.
Ms Henry said: “Leonard Cheshire in Scotland has helped me personally with face to face advice and I want to help more people get support. It made me feel like I was worthwhile and gave me strength to believe in myself and achieve my goals.
“I feel I have the strength to stand up for what is right. My motivation was driven by my desire to ensure disabled people are not forgotten about but are given every chance to fulfil their potential, whatever way they choose. I can’t thank them enough.”
Working relentlessly during regular training sessions, Ms Henry is spurred on by support from local residents in the community in Inverness.
She said: “Training is going well. Regular sports massages at the Inverness Therapy Clinic are helping to keep me on track. The locals are beeping their horns as they drive past me when I'm out training and that's helping to keep me focused and pushing me that little bit further.”
To donate justgiving.com/lindsay-rochford2.
