The Walton Centre is the only specialist hospital trust in the UK dedicated to providing comprehensive specialised services in neurology, neurosurgery, spinal and pain management.

I have covered most of these services the last few years!

I have a Chiari Malformation, which is where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal, and herniated discs at four levels in my neck (the cervical spine).

I suffered with these spinal injuries for a decade before I was referred to the Walton Centre.

As soon as I was under the Walton Centre's care my life changed for the better. The ACDF surgery I had (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion) on my C5 C6 disc has allowed me to be mobile and active again. I have been able to lose the over 100lbs I put on since my spinal injuries. I have stayed at the Police Treatment Centre twice to help in my recovery.

I have been able to start running again and I have returned to work after a long absence. The Walton Centre's continued care and support has allowed me to flourish and thrive.

I really want to help raise money this year for the Walton Centre charity to help support their ground breaking work in any way I can. I am going to be running in many races this year wearing a skeleton outfit to draw attention to the Walton Centre's spinal work and encourage donations, culminating in the big one, I am running the Great North Run Half Marathon in September!

The Walton Centre is a world leading specialist hospital we are so lucky to have in the UK. There are so many people who have been given their lives back thanks to every single member of their supportive team there.

Please help support me in my fundraising mission in anyway you can, tell your friends, share my page, donate if you can, I appreciate anything you can do!
Thank you so much! :-)

Love,
Mairead
xxx Ian Jan