A fundraising event in Ealing for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society is on the look-out for participants to make sure it goes ahead this weekend.
Its pilates marathon is due to take place on Sunday (September 20) - but organisers need another 20 people to take part - or face cancellation.
Event leader Cara Williams organised the bash with her dad, who was diagnosed with MS some 30 years ago now
“I have seen first-hand how debilitating it [MS] is," she said. "The illness has taken away [my father's eyesight and mobility, and he relies on his family to help him do the everyday things we take for granted like getting washed and dressed and going to the toilet.
“Please help the 500 other people living with MS in our local community by signing up to take part in this fun event. It will only take up 45 minutes of your Sunday.”
MS is a chronic autoimmune condition, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissue in the central nervous system, such as the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.
All the funds raised will go towards welfare grants for mobility aids and equipment, respite care, medical bills and many other things.
It will also fund a specially-adapted mobility van to take members to social outings, which can be the only way they are able to get out.
Pilates sessions will run from 9.30am to 1pm at the Trailfinders Sports Club in Vallis Way, West Ealing.
The three-hour marathon will be led by Rima Majed from Pilates Body Shape. The classes will be suitable for any fitness level, and you don’t need any prior Pilates experience.
Classes will focus on legs and abs first, then core and back, followed by legs and abs after a short break and finally core and stretch.
Each 45-minute class costs £10 and participants can take part in as many or as few as they like.
To book a place, email your full name, contact email and phone number and preferred session to Ms Williams via blindedfish@hotmail.com.
Participants must also pay in advance by donation at: https://www.justgiving.com/PilatesMarathon.
