Sunday 26th September 2004

This is the Big One

Since Sheila came into post last August she told us of her determination to secure places for runners on behalf of ME North East. This event is so popular now that the majority of places are taken up no sooner than the last race is finished. Priority is given to past runners and organisations and Sheila was told she maybe too late.

Unperturbed Sheila read into the rules and regulations and completed the necessary forms for 25 places. Not satisfied with sitting back and waiting she called the organisers so often, not only did they come to recognise her voice, they struck up a friendship! After a fretful wait, as our names had to go into an open ballot for the remaining limited places (the friendship won no favours! and we knew it was going to be the luck of the draw). We finally got the call...and……….of course Sheila won the day.

The 25 places are now secure and Sheila is already into her own training; swimming, walking and running, we are all exhausted by her enthusiasm. She has persuaded a number of her friends to join her and we have been extremely lucky to now have over 20 individuals willing to take part. Funds raised will be primarily for the Young Peoples Group and will include hosting a conference for Young People with ME next year.

I, myself, me, Jennifer, have also agreed to take part (this Sheila is one persuasive woman), to prove I can do it? because I am completely off my trolley? Well, yes to both, but also to raise funds to keep our organisation going. Unlike Sheila my training is still in the planning stage (I think about it a lot). However to help me and ME North East, I in turn have persuaded three of my sisters to join me - four of us over fifty - a force to be reckoned with!! We will all be trying our best, but it may be that we complete the course in a brisk walk rather than a run.

We do have a few places remaining - are you up for it? If there is anyone who already has a place and is looking for a charity to run for - please give us a call.
We do ask that each runner raise a minimum of £200 for ME North East. We will supply the sponsor forms, T-shirts, training packs etc. You can do it - book your place now.

As well as runners we do need people to help us with the sponsorship. Do you feel you could do something? Forms will be available from the office, and we will also be sending them out with the Summer Newsletter.

Most of the runners as I said are raising funds specifically for our Young People. My sisters and I are looking to raise lots of money to keep ME North East going as a whole team. Any help you can offer will be most welcome.