A CHARITY founded by inspirational young Tilford woman Laura Sylvester has been given a spring in its step – after US seniors champion runner John Thompson announced he is to run in this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon on its behalf on April 28.

Laura’s charity Mind Body EDS, just into its second year, is dedicated to increasing support and awareness of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), a little-understood but potentially life-threatening connective tissue disorder affecting huge numbers of sufferers of all ages.

The 26-year-old former Farnham Youth Choir singer first showed symptoms of EDS as a young teenager, but it took more than ten years for her condition to be properly diagnosed. By this time she had just weeks to live and had to fly to the USA for urgent specialist neurosurgery.

Though successful, she has since had to undergo several more costly life-saving operations.

“My story is far from unique,” Laura told the Herald.

“Early diagnosis really does save lives, so in setting up Mind Body EDS our goal is to make a real and immediate difference in helping others get the right treatment as soon as possible.”

The charity has set itself an ambitious fundraising target of £50,000 for the London Marathon.

Laura said: “With John’s terrific support, our entry represents an exciting early step in the charity’s own marathon journey in providing essential financial assistance for those are still waiting desperately for the right diagnosis and treatment.”

John, 55, said: “I am honoured to be helping raise the profile of Laura’s new charity, which has immediately hit the ground running in providing practical help for all those who, like her, suffer with this hugely-debilitating illness.”

To support John and Mind Body EDS, visit www.mindbodyeds.org.uk.