An extraordinary man who refuses to let a devastating diagnosis define him is capturing hearts across the country as he aims to raise a staggering £100,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.
Diagnosis and Determination
Matt Cox, who was diagnosed with the progressive disease just 12 months ago, has already seen his mobility heavily impacted. Today, he relies on a dedicated support team and his incredibly loving family to push him in a wheelchair for the majority of his gruelling fundraising challenges.
Yet, despite his rapidly fading physical strength, Matt’s mental grit is stronger than ever. This Sunday, he is determined to leave his wheelchair behind and walk the final four miles of the high-profile Wales marathon between Tenby and Pembroke.
For Matt, every step is a personal victory and a chance to, in his own words, “put two fingers up to MND.”
Fundraising Journey
Matt’s fundraising journey has been nothing short of legendary. In April, he tackled the iconic London Marathon, emotional footage of which showed him courageously walking the final mile across the finish line. Weeks later in Leeds, he doubled it - walking the final two miles. Now, as the marathon arrives on Welsh soil, Matt is doubling the stakes yet again.
“I am absolutely determined to raise £100,000 to support the MND Association, a charity which continues to do so much to not only support me, but the 5,000 others who are living with MND in the UK right now,” Matt said.
“The last few weeks have been really tough. I know MND is slowly taking away my mobility, but that makes me want to do even more. In London I walked for the last mile, in Leeds I walked for the last two, so I’m doubling it to walk four in Wales. My next challenge will be the Great North Run in September where I will walk for the last eight miles. I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me so far, including the MND community which has been incredible. Every penny we raise will make a huge difference.”
Support System and Impact
Behind every great athlete is an incredible team, and Matt is no exception. His family and close friends have remained firmly by his side through every unimaginable challenge over the past year, acting as his literal and emotional pillars of strength.
With his sight firmly set on hitting that massive £100,000 milestone, Matt's defiance in the face of adversity is proving to be a true beacon of hope for the entire MND community.
How to Support Matt
Show your support for Matt along the marathon route this Sunday between Tenby and Pembroke. To learn more about his journey, share his story, or make a vital donation to his £100,000 goal, visit the MND Association.
