This September, an intrepid trio will embark on an inspiring challenge to raise funds for MD Support Centre. Donna Scarrott, Lynn Ward and Sarah Ann Moore will cycle an impressive 335 miles from London to Paris over four days, finishing beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower. Their journey is not just a test of endurance but a powerful statement of determination, community, and support for those living with neuromuscular conditions.
The idea for this challenge came from Donna, a service user at MD Support Centre, who wanted to take on something extraordinary to give back to the charity. Her enthusiasm and determination inspired Lead Physiotherapist Lynn and CEO Sarah to join her. Together, they are pedalling towards greater awareness and vital funding to support the life-changing services MD Support Centre provides.
Meet the riders
Donna
“The MD Support Centre has been a cornerstone in the build-up to and my recovery journey from major foot reconstruction and tendon transfer surgery, providing essential physiotherapy and osteopathy as I navigate life with CMT. Their support has been invaluable, not just to me but to other members of my family living with the same condition.
Donna, a nurse living with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease (CMT), receives physiotherapy and osteopathy from the MD Support Centre. She says:
“I have a career as a nurse, which I have worked so hard for over the years. This has become more challenging with the progression of my CMT. The help and support of the friendly team at MDSC allow me to stay stronger for longer and enable me to maintain my independence and ability to continue in a job I love so much.
“It’s not just the physical therapies that have had the greatest impact on my journey so far, but the staff themselves provide so much more. A friendly smile, a chat over a cup of tea as I discuss my worries and concerns, a hug when needed, and all the practical, emotional, and mental support they provide, sometimes without even realising it.
“Now I feel it’s time to give back to the charity so that they can reach further to support the lives of other individuals with neuromuscular conditions.”
Lynn
“It has been amazing and truly rewarding to have been a part of the Centre’s growth over the past 12 years and to see firsthand the positive effect we have on our service users. They are inspiring individuals who face daily challenges doing the things most of us take for granted. They are an absolute pleasure to work with and now it’s my turn to take on a challenge and give something back.
Lynn is a Co-Lead Physiotherapist at the MD Support Centre. In her role she provides therapy, support and advice that enables people living with MD to maintain their health and wellbeing. She says:
“I am not (yet) a cyclist! I may have run a few miles here and there over the years, but I have not cycled more than a couple of miles down to Parkrun, into town for a coffee or on family holidays laden with buckets and spades to the beach.
“This is going to change over the next few months, it’s not going to be easy but I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Sarah
“As CEO, I’m in a unique position to witness the fantastic impact we have on our service users, and even though I don’t have MD myself, I’m incredibly passionate about what we do and the difference we make. I felt this challenge was a great way to contribute to the charity and raise funds for it, especially given how closely I work with the people we help.
Sarah is the CEO of the MD Support Centre. A former cyclist, she is dusting off her bike to take on this London to Paris challenge. She says:
“When I heard that fabulous service user Donna was going to be taking on this challenge, it sparked a memory of that bike locked away upstairs. And I thought it’s a fantastic thing to do, and if Donna can do it, I should do it too. So, I felt inspired and signed up.
“The journey ahead is daunting, but I’m excited and determined to train seriously. The most exciting part for me will be crossing the finish line in Paris, hopefully having reached my fundraising target, but I’m also looking forward to the camaraderie and the scenery along the way!
“I also want to encourage others to get involved, whether by sponsoring or participating in events leading up to the ride. We’re hoping to create a sense of community and excitement to keep us all motivated, and I’d love to see others join us in any way they can.”