Chris Finister will join over 7,500 runners at Bidwells Oxford 10k on Sunday 10 May. He is running for his partner, Liz Williams, who was diagnosed with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) in 2004. The couple share their story ahead of the sold-out-event.
Fundraiser dedicates Oxford 10k run to his partner
This will be my fourth time running in the Bidwells Oxford 10k race. I’ve also completed the London Marathon and Great North Run several times over the years. I take part in the runs inspired by Liz ,to help fund groundbreaking research and provide vital support for individuals living with a muscle wasting condition and families like ours.
Liz: the importance of volunteering
I’ve been a passionate advocate for people living with FSHD since my diagnosis. As a peer-to-peer volunteer I can use my own lived experience to help support others with a muscle wasting condition.
Volunteering with Muscular Dystrophy UK has enabled me to maintain a level of independence, and I’m grateful for the knowledge I’ve gained from others. The number of happy endorphins I get every time I feel I’ve helped someone in some way, is huge. It’s great for my mental health and has been a real joy.
Witnessing first-hand the support the charity provides for people living with a condition and their families really highlights the importance of events like the Bidwells Oxford 10k. Not only does it help to raise awareness by putting muscular dystrophy at the front of people’s minds, but the money raised helps the charity to continue to provide support, fund groundbreaking research and develop new treatments.
Chris: getting ready for race day
I’m looking forward to running in this year’s race and it’s always fantastic to see the local Oxford community coming together to support such a strong cause. Witnessing Liz living with a muscle wasting condition has robbed her of many things but her sheer grit and passion to fight for a more inclusive world is remarkable.
The closed-route race will be officially started by the Blackmore family, including Leanne Blackmore, mother-to-two, Evie, 15, and Martha, 11, who all live FSHD.
