This year I will be taking on the challenge of running the London Marathon to raise money for Nerve Tumours UK, a charity that is very close to my heart.

My motivation comes from my little sister who was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) at a young age. NF1 is a genetic disorder that causes tumours to form on nerve tissues throughout the body.

The condition is progressive and the tumours and associated pain continue to have a major impact on Gaby’s quality of life.

It has been heartbreaking to watch my vibrant little sister deal with this unfair disorder. While there is no cure yet, charities like Nerve Tumours UK provide critical support for NF patients and fund research that could one day make treatments available. I want to do everything I can to help.

That’s why I’m pushing myself to complete the 26.2 mile London Marathon course. I have never been much of a runner, but with Gabs as my inspiration I am determined to cross that finish line. I’m also living with type 1 diabetes, which adds an extra challenge to the marathon training.

Please consider supporting my London Marathon effort with a donation towards Nerve Tumours UK. Your contribution will directly help young people like Gaby in the UK living with NF1. Together we can fund critical research, provide support services, spread awareness and work towards a world without NF.

Thank you so much for reading my story and for your generosity. Every step I take during that marathon will be for Gabs and all the other NF warriors.