On 2 October 2022 Jane and Lynn will run the London Marathon to raise money for Shine.

Shine provides specialist support from before birth and throughout the life of anyone living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, as well as to parents, families, carers and professional care staff. Shine enables people to get the best out of life.

Jane’s Story
My daughter Izzy had a brain hemorrhage at birth and subsequently developed hydrocephalus. The first few years were very tough with a lot of uncertainty about Izzy's development. In spite of this Izzy has developed into a 'normal' 16-year-old, and with the continuous support of Shine, we've had the confidence to enable Izzy to live a very full life. Many children with hydrocephalus or spina bifida cannot live such an active life due to their disabilities, and when you give birth to a child with these challenges, this is one of the many worries . I'm keen for Isabella's story to inspire those worried families just starting their 'journey' with hydrocephalus or spina bifida and inspire hope for the future.

I am so privileged to be running the London Marathon in support of Shine and to be doing it with my running partner-in-crime and good friend, Lynn.

Lynn’s Story

I knew very little about Spina bifida and hydrocephalus or Shine until I met Jane some 10 years ago. I knew of the importance for pregnant women to take folic acid, but that was the extent of it. Getting to know Jane and her wonderful family has enlightened me. My first memories of becoming aware of Izzy’s condition were when Jane and her husband would discuss concerns over any headaches Izzy might have. Then there were obvious little things like them not wanting Izzy to go to trampoline parks where she might sustain a neck or head injury. As we became closer friends, I began to understand the impact that hydrocephalus and spina bifida can have on a family. This was really brought into stark reality in 2021  when Izzy started to have unusual headaches and sickness and it became apparent her shunt was failing and she had to have it replaced. This was such a stressful and worrying time for Izzy as a young teenager and naturally, her nearest and dearest.  

It feels important to run the London Marathon for a cause that is so personal to Jane, Izzy and their family and friends, but also to raise valuable funds for a smaller, lesser-known charity that is performing an incredibly important role for many. 

Your donation will  help individuals and families in your local communities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every donation has the potential for profound impact.THANK YOU for supporting Shine!