Thanks for visiting my page. I’m running the London Marathon for the first time this year in aid of Hft, the brilliant charity that supports - and often houses -adults with learning disabilities, including my sister, Christina.

Hft provides a home for Christina and her friends, and it’s a home for life, particularly important when you consider that many of these people, who often have Downs Syndrome or some form of severe autism, might otherwise fall between the cracks of society. And that doesn’t bear thinking about. But with Hft they are kept safe, encouraged to be independent, pursue hobbies, perhaps have part-time jobs and live a happy, full life. Some of them may no longer have family, but Hft provides a family of its own. 

As a doctor once told my mum many years ago (just before she stormed out of his office) we will never know “what is *wrong* with Christina”. But that’s because there is nothing “wrong” with her: she is Christina, and she is wonderful as she is.

I’m running the marathon because Christina cannot (and to be honest she’s probably far too sensible to do it anyway). Being able to run is one of the many small things I take for granted, but it’s not something my sister is able to do, which seems deeply unfair. And I have to remind myself of that every time I don’t want to go out to run in the rain. 

Any donations you can give to help Hft would be brilliant! 

Thank you,

Anna