A MUM of six has pulled on her running shoes to take on a fundraising marathon after being diagnosed with Asperger syndrome.

Sandra Johnson, of Merivale Road in Lawford, has become a self-confessed fitness fanatic after reaching 21 stone and struggling to walk.

After losing ten stone and taking part in various fitness activities including two half marathons, Sandra decided to undergo a test to see if she was on the autism spectrum.

The 46-year-old said: “Of my six children, five are on the spectrum at varying levels.

“Filling in the forms for my children I realised how I would score.

“I had a lot of support from the National Autistic Society, especially in deciding whether or not to go and get a diagnosis.

“It’s a label and it’s a distressing process for an adult to go through - it’s very very stressful.There was someone there for me to talk to and there are forums.

“They provide invaluable help and support for those that live on the spectrum and their families.” To say thank you for the support, Sandra wants to raise £500 for the charity by taking part in the Brighton Marathon on Sunday, April 15.

“I started training at the beginning of the year,” she said. “It’s hard.”

“I’ve been doing training runs around the Manningtree area - it’s hard.”

“I’m excited but scared.”Two fundraising events are being held ahead of the marathon. The first is a fancy dress zumba class at Brantham Leisure Centre at 8pm on Wednesday.

The second is a burpee challenge where she will do a burpee - a squat jump exercise - for every pound donated, on Friday, April 6 at Busy Body’s gym in Manningtree.

Sandra added: “Stef O’Hara is my personal trainer and is holding the fancy dress zumba.

“I want to thank her for all the work she’s put in to helping me get ready for the marathon too.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Sandra-Johnson14