"I'm Ashley, I have RP, and I'm taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon for the fifth time.
"I started running in May 2013 to try and keep fit and although I can't run at night or easily on the roads due to my vision (I use a white cane when walking on my own and am on the waiting list for a Guide Dog), I have found an unused railway line which has helped me increase my running and also have a running machine whenever the weather is not so good.
“The #LondonMarathon is iconic around the world. It is a great platform to let people know about the fantastic work that Retina UK does for people like me.
“I am classed as severely sight impaired / blind with a visual field of no more than 3-5% of a person with ‘normal’ sight. I will be running with a guide runner; a friend of mine called Chris, who will keep me running in the right direction. Chris introduced me to the disused railway route and we have run together throughout the lockdown period {socially distanced of course) for 1,000KM or so.
“There is no getting away that a marathon is a long distance but I have found with the thrill, buzz and excitement from the crowds and other participants, the incredible volunteers and knowing that friends, family and work colleagues have generously donated to this amazing charity all go to help motivate and make the distance feel a lot less than it really is. My simple words of wisdom to anyone thinking of running – enjoy every minute, it is incredible from start to finish!”
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