<p>For those of you that know me the idea that I'll be running, let alone running 8 miles through an Aldershot Army Base at times up to my waist in water will come as something of a surprise. Throw in a 3rd of December race date and the fact that last year the run had to be cancelled due to the freezing temperatures, you may be questioning whether this is really me typing at all!</p> <p>So you want a reason for this ridiculous behaviour? Well aside from the personal achievement which I&rsquo;m led to believe will be &lsquo;well worth it&rsquo;, I&rsquo;m doing my bit for charity which in this case is the Transverse Myelitis Society of which my mother is the Chairman, she&rsquo;s also been diagnosed with TM for many years.</p> <p>TM is a Transverse myelitis is a neurological disorder caused by inflammation across both sides of one level, or segment, of the spinal cord. Symptoms of transverse myelitis include a loss of spinal cord function over several hours to several weeks. What usually begins as a sudden onset of lower back pain, muscle weakness, or abnormal sensations in the toes and feet can rapidly progress to more severe symptoms, including paralysis, urinary retention, and loss of bowel control. Although some patients recover from transverse myelitis with minor or no residual problems, others suffer permanent impairments that affect their ability to perform ordinary tasks of daily living.</p> <p>In short I&rsquo;ll be putting myself through hell for a great cause. Please give generously at the least and recklessly at best!</p> <p>Thanks</p> <p>J</p>