Challenging MND
1604. Alex Gibson
Alex Gibson, from Essex, is a former British decathlete who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2018 and set up his charity ‘Challenging MND’ to support people living with the condition.
Through gruelling endurance challenges, including navigating the Thames in a pedalo boat last summer in Guinness World Record-breaking time, Alex has so far raised over £170,000, with money going towards helping other people living with MND to experience their own memorable challenges, and ensuring they can maintain an active lifestyle for as long as they are able.
In a personal letter to Alex, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Thank you for all that you are doing through ‘Challenging MND’ to support people living with motor neurone disease.
“Your record breaking feats of fortitude have inspired others to give generously to your charity and those donations will give the gift of memories through days out and special experiences.”
Alex said:
“I am incredibly honoured to have been recognised by the Prime Minister and receive this award.
“The whole purpose of setting up the charity ‘Challenging MND’ was to reach out to those diagnosed with this cruel, life-shortening disease and provide memorable experiences for them and their loved ones to cherish.
“I would like to dedicate this award to anyone who has been diagnosed with the debilitating neurological disease of MND. At the same time, to all the unsung heroes or supporters that are instrumental in helping them to manage through the inevitable tough times ahead.”
Pictured below: Alex with supporters on some of his previous challenges
