My good friend Fern Rodgers has been working tirelessly in the field of aphasia research for some time.

Aphasia affects around 350,000 people in the UK, yet few people have heard of it. Aphasia is a communication disability that occurs when the brain's communication centres are damaged. It is usually caused by a stroke, brain haemorrhage, head injury or a brain tumour.

Fern has seen how aphasia affects people living with the condition in many ways. Therapeutic approaches continue to be developed, but not everyone will fully recover their language function, meaning many will struggle chronically with everyday communication. Please help me support this great cause to ensure progress continues to be made.

Out of support for Fern’s inspiring research (and motivation to get running), I will participate in the Brighton half marathon at the end of Feb. All sponsorship is greatly appreciated! Lyle Pentith