Man with MS walks 100 miles for PDSA

23 March 2026

In March 2026, 63-year-old Andy Blacker, from Ipswich, finished his impressive ‘Steps 4 Pets’ fundraising ‘hobble’ as a thank you to PDSA for taking care of his beloved pet Rosie in 2022.

Andy, a former Police Officer, has raised money for charities close to his heart for the past five years. So far, he’s walked over 1,100 miles and raised hundreds of pounds for charities across the UK, despite being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and needing two walking sticks. He also needs to wear a rigid splint to support his ankle as he has a common MS symptom called footdrop.

He began his ‘Steps 4 Pets’ fundraiser on 7 June 2025 in Ipswich, with his community, including the local Mayor, cheering him on every step of the way. Andy finished his challenge in March 2026, tallying up an impressive 100 miles for PDSA.

Andy chose to raise money for PDSA as they helped him and his dog Rosie in 2022 when she needed a vet.

He said: “We had a beautiful Whippet called Rosie who we had since she was a puppy. She was so affectionate and cuddly; my wife, Kay, and my son, Matthew, loved her so much.

“One Christmas, Rosie became unwell, so we took her to a private vet. We were discharged with some medication, but unfortunately, it didn’t help, and not long after she had a seizure. It was one of the worst times of my life seeing her suffering like that, I was heartbroken. It was late in the evening, so most vets were shut and we didn’t know what to do. Thankfully, we managed to get her into Gateshead PDSA Pet Hospital.”

She was very unwell, but sadly, the kindest thing to do was put her to sleep to prevent further pain and suffering.

Andy said: “We knew on the way to the hospital that it was going to be our last one with Rosie, which was hard to accept. When we arrived, the staff were lovely and welcoming. They checked over Rosie and made sure that she was comfortable.

“When it was time to say goodbye, the staff were so patient with us and did everything they could to make it as easy as possible. We appreciate what they did for me, my wife, and Rosie. The compassion shown from the staff at Gateshead PDSA Pet Hospital was absolutely incredible. They really helped us cope during such a difficult time.”

As well as completing his impressive ‘Steps 4 Pets’ 100-mile challenge, Andy also donated a dog lead, pet beds, and bedding the nearest PDSA Pet Hospital.

Since being diagnosed with MS in 1994, Andy has completed The Great North Run, abseiling, parachute jumps, Suspended Catch Air Device Diving (SCAD) and other walking challenges for charities.

He became inspired by seeing Captain Tom complete challenges for charity throughout the pandemic and started his walking journey there. His community has supported him through every step.

Andy explained: “Every time I do a new fundraising challenge, I reach out to the same members in my community, as they are so supportive. They’re just everyday people with their own financial worries, but they still cheer me on, supporting me and the charities I care about.

“I have Secondary progressive MS; I need two walking sticks and a splint to support my right foot so I can walk. Naturally, I’ve had falls along the way, but there has always been someone to help get me back on my feet.”

As of March 2026, Andy has raised over £349 for PDSA.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Shauna Walsh, added: “We’re grateful to Andy for choosing to support PDSA. It’s thanks to kind-hearted people like him that we can treat for pets, keeping people and pets together. Thank you so much for your support, Andy.”

Andy’s story is just one way of fundraising for PDSA. There are many ways you can raise money, find out more here.