A MERTHYR TYDFIL man with a rare neurological disorder is set to take on a multi-marathon challenge to raise funds and awareness for nationwide charity, Ataxia UK.
46-year-old Geraint Williams, who was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia nearly 20 years ago, is attempting to complete eight major endurance challenges this year in his adapted wheelchair. He will be assisted by his son Samuel Williams.
The rare neurological condition affects Mr Wiliams’ balance, coordination and speech.
He is aiming to raise £2,000 for Ataxia UK – the UK’s only charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by the condition. According to the charity, there are only 10,000 people in the UK living with ataxia.
So far this year, Mr Williams has completed the Paris and Edinburgh Marathons and the Berlin Half Marathon, raising £1,360. He is now preparing for his next event – the Wales-based Four Castles Series (beginning on May 10, 2026), which consists of four individual half marathons in Snowdown, Caernarfon, Conwy and Bangor.
To support Mr Williams, Specsavers Merthyr Tydfil has provided him with prescription glasses to ensure he has the clear vision he needs while taking on the demanding course.
Richard Dyson, retail director at Specsavers Merthyr Tydfil, says: “Geraint is an inspiration not only to our team but also to the wider Merthyr community.
“Providing him with prescription glasses means he can continue his remarkable fundraising journey safely and with confidence.
“We’re thrilled to support him and hope our support will encourage other businesses and members of the community to get behind him in whatever way they can.”
Mr Williams says: “Ataxia is a rare condition, with many people not being aware of it. Hopefully, this challenge will raise the profile of Ataxia UK and bring much needed funds and awareness.”
Anyone wishing to sponsor Mr Williams can do so via his JustGiving page (https://www.justgiving.com/page/geraint-williams-5).
Specsavers Merthyr Tydfil is open seven days a week. For more information, to book an appointment or browse the online store, visit the Specsavers Merthyr Tydfil webpage.
