A MOTORBIKE fan from Newcastle is preparing to embark on a journey of a different kind just weeks after returning from an 10,000-mile ride across the United States to raise awareness of motor neurone disease (MND).
Former New College Durham lecturer, Christopher Gordon, travelled across 48 states of the US in 48 days on a Harley-Davidson during August and September in memory of his sister Sandra, who died from the terminal, neurological disease almost a year ago. So far, he has raised more than £5,000 for the MND Association, the largest MND charity in the UK, which will help to develop support for people with MND and their families, while also funding research into potential new treatments.
Now, as the first anniversary of Sandra’s death approaches, Christopher is more determined than ever to help raise awareness of MND, a devastating disease which affects around 5,000 people in the UK at any one time. While research into MND continues to gather pace there are currently no effective treatments or a cure.
Reflecting on his journey across America, Christopher said:
“What really struck me was just how many people have been affected by this terrible disease. People would come up to me and ask what I was doing and then tell me about someone they knew who has been affected by MND.
“For me, the ride was all about giving back hope to everyone, something which I just think is so important.
“As it stands, when someone is diagnosed with MND there are no treatments. By sharing my story, I want to help raise awareness of this devastating disease and help play a part in changing that outcome.”
During his journey, Chris battled flash floods, tornadoes and dust storms making his trip all the more challenging, but he said every mile he travelled helped to give him purpose.
He said:
“Looking back now I’m really proud of everything I’ve achieved and I know Sandra would have been too. She was with me every step of the way. I hope people are inspired and take part in similar challenges of their own.
“I am certain that my journey won’t stop here. For me it’s about sharing my story far and wide and encouraging others to get involved in the fight against MND. I plan to the 48 in 48 journey back out on the road with talks to groups, societies, schools and universities.”
To learn more about Christopher and his story you can follow him on Facebook at 48 States in 48 days. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com and search for Christopher Gordon.
For information about MND and the work of the MND Association visit www.mndassociation.org
