Hi everyone. My name is Joanne and I have decided to take a huge leap and run Disneys half Marathon in Jan 2012 in Florida on behalf of A.D.D.E.R. My Mam has suffered from Dystonia now for 10 years which has changed her life immensly. This charity is very very close to mine and my families heart. It affects the ability to do normal everyday tasks which we all take for granted and is a very dibilitating and stigmatizing disorder. No longer being able to work, drive and at one point her condition seriously compromised her health.

Dystonia is a little known neurological condition affecting the central nervous system and consists of a group of related movement disorders, characterised by involuntary and often very painful and prolonged spasms of muscle contractions. Recent medical developments means it is now treatable, although it is not yet curable. Different medications can be used but the majority of people now opt for regular injections of Botulinum Toxin which weakens those muscles in spasm thus giving temporary relief, usually lasting about 12 weeks.

This disorder has made my Mam a much stronger person, she also has made some amazing life long friends through this and they fight Dystonia together.She really has been an inspiration to our family and others with dystonia, Having raised awareness by naming Dads horse Dystonia's revenge and it's won a few times. She always offers help to others with the disorder from all over the world.

I am hoping to raise money for A.D.D.E.R. and to promote awareness and encourage research amongst the medical profession of the neurological conditions known as Dystonia.

If you would like to support me please donate via Just Giving on the following link:

http://www.justgiving.com/Joanne-Blacklock