Stafford, Queensland General Duties Officer, Sergeant Matt Herring has set himself the task of running the ASICS Half Marathon at this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon while raising money and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis Queensland.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has cast a harrowing shadow over his family in recent times after his sister-in-law was diagnosed with the debilitating disease almost 20 years ago and his partner, also a Queensland police officer, more recently in mid-2013.

The 38-year-old said the disease of the central nervous systems affects more than 23,000 Australians and despite there being various medications to assist those living with it, there is currently no cure.

“My partner’s diagnosis last year has really opened my eyes to how good health and nutrition assists those with Multiple Sclerosis in reducing their symptoms,” Matt said.

“By running the ASICS Half Marathon and raising funds and awareness for MS, I feel that I can provide support to people suffering.”

Support for Matt has come from his sister who has chosen to run with him as well as his friends and colleagues at the Queensland Police Service.

“It’s going to be a whole family affair as I’m running it with my sister, Kelli, who is extremely supportive and trains with me regularly,” Matt said.

“There are also some very generous donations coming in from fellow officers and there is an endless list of running partners to keep me on track.”

Matt said that despite having a physically and mentally demanding job as a Queensland police officer, he is still able to fit in the necessary training required to complete the 21 kilometre race.

“Having days off during the week are perfect for me to do my long runs with very few other people out running or hitting the trails,” Matt said.

“These ‘runs’ are what I call ‘jalks’ which comprise of running, jogging and walking. I have a long way to go but I have my health and motivation on my side to get me over the line.”

Having already reached his monetary goal of $2,109.75, Matt’s focus is now on doubling it with the help of his brother who is hosting a charity pizza night.

“I initially set a goal of raising $100 for every kilometre of the race, now that I’ve passed it with 12 weeks to go, I think I can easily double it,” Matt said.

“My brother and his family are the owners of Pizza Capers Carseldine and they’re hosting ‘Pizza for a Cure’ on Tuesday 15 April where the takings from the night will be donated to Multiple Sclerosis Queensland.”

Click here for more information regarding ‘Pizza for a Cure’.

If you would like to support Matt please visit his Everyday Hero page.

For more information visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au.