In july 2024, I am embarking on my first triathlon by competing in the London T100. This will be one of the hardest challenges I will have to face yet. Alongside training for the Tri, I will be working concurrently as long haul cabin crew (with that being a massive obstacle in itself) - where I first met Tilly’s mum; Lindsey who - just like Matilda is one of the most remarkable people I have ever met.

Tilly has cerebal palsy which affects her legs, hands and mobility. Matilda has had numerous surgeries over her life to improve her mobility, as she approaches her 14th birthdsy there is now a limited amount of time within the natural growth period for final surgeries to take place in order to set her up for life so she can keep her mobility and most importantly, her independence going into her adult life. No 13 year old girl should have to worry about losing their mobility later in life. Despite this, she remains extremely positive and still manages to keep up with her friends by walking short distances, however often uses a wheelchair and kaye walker

But this hurts to do because her hamstrings have bad spasticity meaning they're tight and painful all the time. This makes Matilda walk with a crouch which causes more problems for her hips and back. Then on top of that, her balance and posture are affected which can cause Tilly to fall over causing her knees to be constantly cut and bruised.

To set Matilda up in the best way for adult life; to keep her walking independently is to have surgery on her hamstrings in order to lengthen themes, to help stop the pain, relieve pressure from her back by reducing her ‘crouch’ and most importantly - to keep her walking. She has already embarked on growth plate surgery earlier this year to again, relieve pressure on her back and to help align her hips to allow her to walk even the shortest of distances without her kaye walker.

The reason I am fundraising is so Matilda and her family can go back to a private doctor who successfully carried out previous surgeries which have improved her CP massively. And to keep Matilda walking.

I first met Lindsey on my first training day and she has since remained a good friend. She is extremely hard working, positive and most of all, supportive. There have been many times where she has made my day or my trip so much better just with her presence, humour and witt. It will be such an honour to give back to such an incredible and resilient family.

Lets keep Matilda Walking.

Meg x

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/keepmatildawal