Harriett Pope from Ivybridge is preparing to run the London Marathon on Sunday, April 23 to raise money for the Scoliosis Campaign Fund.

Scoliosis is the abnormal twisting and curvature of the spine that can cause great pain. Harriett is one of the three or four people in every thousand that have been diagnosed with Scoliosis.

She said: “In July 2009 aged only 12, I underwent major corrective spinal surgery and was left with two rods and 12 pins along the length of my spine. At its worst, my curve grew to 54 degrees contorting and twisting my spine and ribs.

“Today my spine is measured at 17 degrees, so although it is not completely straight, the rods and pins have significantly reduced my curvature and are preventing it from increasing further.”

“Without this life changing surgery I might not be walking today let alone running the London Marathon,” Harriett continued.

“I’ve always wanted to show my appreciation to all of those that were involved in my diagnosis, surgery and recovery. I see this sponsored challenge as my way of giving back to the charity, so others can be helped in the same situation.”

“Any donations towards this extremely worthy cause will be used for the greatest benefit,” Harriett added.

The Scoliosis Campaign Fund raises money for both the Scoliosis Association UK and the British Scoliosis Research Foundation. The funds raised support individuals with scoliosis and further research into finding the causes of scoliosis and treatments to improve quality of life for patients.

To donate money to the Scoliosis Campaign Fund, visit Harriett’s Virgin Money Giving Page: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/HarriettPope.