I hate running...BUT I hate MSA more

By Emily Nunn

I've created this page because I want to make a difference.

I’ll be honest — I hate running. Especially long distance. Like… deeply.

But here we are. I’m running a marathon.

Not because I suddenly love it, but because this one matters. I lost my Dad to Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) in 2024, and this is my way of doing something — even if it means 42km of suffering.

I’ve set this up to raise awareness and funds for MSA, and to stand alongside the people and families going through it. It’s a brutal condition, and it deserves a lot more attention than it gets.

Every donation genuinely makes a difference. If you can give, I’d be incredibly grateful. If not, sharing this means just as much — getting the word out matters.

This one’s for Dad 💜

…and unfortunately, also for my legs.

My Updates

The decision

Monday 27th Apr
I’ve been sitting with this idea since Dad passed away in 2024. It wasn’t loud or clear at first—more like a quiet thought that kept coming back when things slowed down. Do something. Make it count. Eventually, it stopped being optional.

So here it is: I’m running a marathon.

For anyone who knows me, that probably sounds ridiculous. I hate running. Especially long distance. But this isn’t about suddenly loving it—it’s about doing something hard, on purpose, for a reason that actually matters.

Dad lived with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a disease most people—including us—had never heard of. That lack of awareness made everything harder. The uncertainty, the delays, the not knowing what was coming next… it left a mark on all of us. No family should have to navigate something that brutal in the dark. 

This marathon is my way of pushing back against that.

Dad was uncomfortable for years. He lived through something relentless. So if I’m uncomfortable for 42 kilometres, that’s a trade I’m willing to make. Every step is a reminder of why this matters, and who it’s for.

I’m running to raise awareness so more people know what MSA is. I’m running to raise funds so there’s more support, more research, and hopefully, better outcomes for those who come next.

I hate running. But I’ll do this.
Because staying still isn’t an option anymore.

Thank you to my Sponsors

$263.75

Ross

Luck the brain is more stubborn than the legs, they'll get you there!

$105.50

Liz Cornelius

Wishing you strength to your legs and your emotions. You have such deep determination Em, I know will draw on this to succeed. Glucose gels and the odd expletive might help too xxx

$105.50

Diane Ottaway

Well done Em x

$105.50

Dani Brown

$105.50

The Burgess Family

This is awesome Em! We will be cheering for you the whole 42km!!

$52.75

Anonymous

$52.75

Athol

Run well my friend 🧡. A great cause and I'm sure your dad will be with you for every kilometre.

$52.75

Jenna Ireland

You got this love, we can do some run club runs with you if you want too!

$52.75

Kat

Go Em!

$52.75

P

So proud of you Em ❤️

$52.75

The Dobbers

Good stuff you. ❤️ Michelle & Kate

$52.75

Simone Oliver

Go Em

$52.75

Holly & Nathan

Amazing Em! You’ve got this 💛

$52.75

Booker Family

You’ve got this!

$52.75

Berni

Run Forrest run!!

$31.65

Josh Whitfield

You go girl

$26.38

The Boobars

Go Em!

$26.38

Ryan Mclennan

Get it mate!

$26.38

Marni Carswell

Go Em!! You’re a legend.

$26.38

Emily

$26.38

Bron

Legend. No notes xx

$26.38

Emma Reid

Best of luck Em! ❤️

$25

Hailey Burns

$15

Corey