A KEEN runner who completed the ‘toughest foot race on earth’ is now facing a daunting deteriorating illness.

Northwich gran Jo Molyneaux took part in the Marathon des Sables in memory of a schoolgirl who took her own life.

She completed six marathons in six days across the Sahara Desert and raised more than £1,300 for Papyrus, a charity for the prevention of young suicide, in memory of Maisy Lewis, 14, from Runcorn.

Sadly, the long distance runner was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease last year, aged just 60.

Northwich Guardian: Jo Molyneaux is excited about her 35-mile marathonJo Molyneaux is excited about her 35-mile marathon

However, energetic Jo, from Kingsmead, who has been running for more than 20 years, is not prepared to give up her passion.

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She had planned to run a 35-mile ultramarathon on the island of Tiree in the Inner Hebrides on Sunday, September 4, in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.

Reluctantly, due to the progression of her condition, mum-of-two Jo had to pull out of the event.

However, thanks to kind-hearted runner Hayley Robinson, she now plans to complete a 35-mile marathon closer to home.

Northwich Guardian: Hayley Robinson, an experienced long distance runner, who has offered to accompany Jo on her marathonHayley Robinson, an experienced long distance runner, who has offered to accompany Jo on her marathon

Son Matt Baily, 37, said: “Hayley, a Northwich personal trainer with masses of long distance experience, has offered to plot an alternative route in the local area that she will run alongside my mother on the same day as the proposed race.

“We are incredibly grateful to her.”

Jo has conquered countless extreme events as well as multiple Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons.

Northwich Guardian: Jo is determined to keep running as long as she canJo is determined to keep running as long as she can

She represented Great Britain at half Iron Man distance for her age group and completed a 370-mile ski race across the Arctic.

Mat said: “Alzheimer’s is the cruellest illness for her to have.

“She still has massive physical capability but it’s the mental side that is difficult.

“She has done more than 400 miles training for Sunday’s marathon. I ride a bike in front of her.

“She is excited for the challenge and very eager to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society which has helped her a lot through her journey.”

Northwich Guardian: Jo pictured before she completed six marathons in six days across the Sahara DesertJo pictured before she completed six marathons in six days across the Sahara Desert

The route on Sunday will take the running duo on a massive loop around Whatcroft, Davenham, Toft, Knutsford and Pickmere.

Jo hopes to finish her five hour marathon at Marbury Park, where her running friends will be waiting to cheer her on.

She has already raised £1,200.

To donate visit justgiving.com/jo-molyneaux1