I'm fundraising towards Whizz-Kidz' vital services for young wheelchair users by running the TCS London Marathon 2022. 

I first started running about 8 years ago as I wanted to improve my fitness levels and I found it to be a way I could enjoy exercising outdoors. However, it wasn't something I did very regularly and the furthest distance I ran was a 5km race. Over the next few years I dipped in and out of running on a sporadic basis, but when my world was torn apart by a hurricane in 2017 whilst I was living in the Caribbean I started running more regularly and it became my way of coping with a situation that was out of my control. I found when I was running it was some time out where I could be alone with my thoughts in an attempt to process what was going on around me. Not only has running improved my physical health but it has become integral for my mental health and I cannot imagine my life without it. I feel very grateful that I have the ability to run and thankful that I am able to make the choice to do so. 

I don't remember exactly when I first started thinking about running a marathon but in 2019 I quietly set myself the goal of running a marathon by the time I was 40 (a two year-ish goal). Through a combination of factors including doubting my ability to be able to run the distance, procrastination, and a global pandemic the next couple of years went by and I was no closer to running a marathon. It was only after moving to Guernsey and joining a local running club that my confidence grew I decided to apply for a place. I found out the marathon was on the 2nd October this year, which is the day after my 41st birthday and I was determined to go for it and achieve my goal, albeit one day late. 

Running has transformed my life and I could not think of a better charity to run for in a way to give back to help transform the lives of others. All young people face challenges, but for a young wheelchair user society can be that bit more challenging to navigate. The right wheelchair is more than just a set of wheels; it can be the key to unlocking a young person’s potential. Whizz-Kidz’ range of services give young disabled people the chance to lead a fun and active childhood, while gaining independence and growing in confidence.

Please sponsor me and help transform young people's lives. Every pound donated gets me another step closer to the finish line. Bring on the TCS London Marathon 2022!