AS IF running a marathon isn't challenging enough, one Tredegar man has decided to add climbing a mountain to his route while taking part in this weekend's Virtual London Marathon.

During his route Dan Cowen will be climbing Pen y Fan - the highest mountain in South Wales. He is taking on the daunting challenge to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association, after his mum was diagnosed with the disease.

Mr Cowen’s mum Carole, 69, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in December.

Motor Neurone Disease is a rapidly progressing disease which affects the brain and spinal cord, and can significantly shorten life expectancy. It attacks the nerves that control movement and eventually leaves people unable to move, communicate or breathe.

There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed through treatments.

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“It began with my mum losing sensation and control in one of her hands,” said Mr Cowen. “She struggled to open jars and things with one hand. She went to the GP, thinking it might just be a trapped nerve.

“When she was diagnosed, it was quite difficult to take for my mum, and for everybody.

“It’s difficult medically for her, but also in terms of movement around the house or just playing with her grandson.

South Wales Argus: Carole Cowen and her grandson Max. Picture: Cowen family.Carole Cowen and her grandson Max. Picture: Cowen family.

“You go instantly from being very able-bodied and social, to then having those day-to-day difficulties.

“My dad has been so supportive.

“This disease simply sucks. The current medication is only moderately effective at slowing the progression of the disease.

“It’s clear that more research is needed to help find a cure.

“Currently all research for MND is funded by charities with no government assistance.

“We thought we needed to raise some money for research in this area.

“Any donations to MND will help with research that could lead to a cure. Team Cowen really appreciate your help.”

South Wales Argus: Dan and Carole Cowen. Picture: Cowen family.Dan and Carole Cowen. Picture: Cowen family.

Following his mum’s diagnosis, Mr Cowen and his family have committed to raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Mr Cowen, 43, will be running the Virtual London Marathon 2021 on Sunday, October 3.

Having previously completed marathons and ironman events, Mr Cowen decided to add an extra challenge to his run.

He will be starting and finishing the run in Tredegar, with his marathon distance also incorporating climbing Pen y Fan in the middle.

“My first idea was to do it around where I currently live in Cheltenham,” he said. “But whe I was looking at a map around Tredegar and measuring it out, Pen y Fan fitted perfectly into the distance.

“I put it to a vote on Instagram, and got lots of responses back saying to do Pen y Fan.”

South Wales Argus: The Cowen family have committed to raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, with Dan Cowen saying it was "a team effort". Picture: Cowen family.The Cowen family have committed to raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, with Dan Cowen saying it was "a team effort". Picture: Cowen family.

Mr Cowen is aiming to raise £5,000 by completing the marathon – and is already more than halfway to his target.

He will be aiming to complete the run between 2.30pm and 3pm on October 3 on Fields Road in Tredegar. Anyone wishing to show their support is welcome to attend.

To find out more, or if you are able to donate, you can visit Mr Cowen’s fundraising page at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=19966_8909558_3377&pageUrl=1