Thousands of people are set to take part in the Admiral Swansea Bay 10k this weekend to conquer challenges, tackle personal bests and raise vital funds for causes that matter.
Among the participants at the Sunday September 14 event is Cllr Andrea Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation at Swansea Council, who is raising money for Parkinson’s UK.
Cllr Williams, aged 52, is living with early-onset Parkinson’s disease but has bravely turned her diagnosis into a powerful force for change.
Her condition began with pain in her left shoulder and a tremor in her right hand about three years ago.
Cllr Williams was eventually referred to Dr Ffion Thomas, a neurologist and Parkinson’s specialist based at the Parkinson’s clinic in Gorseinon where she received a definitive diagnosis.
Cllr Williams said: “When I was diagnosed, it was odd because relief replaced frustration.
“I knew all along because my mum also had Parkinson’s, so the diagnosis meant I could get the right treatment.
“The prescribed medication has made an encouraging difference – the tremor has calmed, and my emotional well-being is better.”
Cllr Williams was also advised to exercise more, so she’s been running every other day, weightlifting and doing high intensity interval training.
“It’s been a game-changer,” said Cllr Williams. “It hasn’t just improved my fitness. It’s also improved my mood and overall resilience.”
Organised by Swansea Council and running since 1981, the Admiral Swansea Bay 10K boasts a rich history of community participation and charitable giving.
Year after year, runners of all abilities converge along the stunning waterfront course to challenge themselves and support causes close to their hearts.
It’ll be the first 10k for Cllr Williams, who has already raised £2,400 towards her £3,000 fundraising target.
She’s also due to compete in a half-marathon next summer to continue her fundraising journey.
Cllr Williams said: “As well as the fundraising, this is also about visibility and contributing to Parkinson’s UK in their mission to find a cure.
“The council’s events team does a superb job in organising the event every year.
“It benefits from an electric atmosphere, so I’m looking forward to experiencing the buzz of taking part.”
As well as the main 10k race, there’s also a junior 1k race, a junior 3k race, a wheelchair race and a mascot race.
About 5,500 people will be taking part across all races on Sunday, although entries are now closed.
Head to www.swanseabay10k.com for more information about the Admiral Swansea Bay 10k.
You can also head here to contribute to Cllr Williams’ fundraising for Parkinson’s UK.
