I am running the Brighton Marathon on 10th April 2022 to raise money for Williams Syndrome Foundation (WSF).

I am supporting my brother-in-law, Patrick, on his third of an incredible four marathons in a month challenge(!), also raising money for WSF (https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paddysmarathonmonth).

My youngest daughter Lottie was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome when she was 3 weeks old in December 2020. Williams Syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that causes delayed physical and mental development as well as learning difficulties and other health challenges.

Now 15 months old, I am incredibly proud of Lottie. Her outgoing personality and infectious smile shine so bright and she has already shown so much bravery in her short life. 

The charity have been and continue to be an invaluable support to our family, helping Hannah and I have a network of other people who are going on the same journey as us.

One of the big challenges we have encountered so far is because Williams Syndrome is so rare, with only 1 in 18,000 people having the condition, it is less understood than other congenital disorders. This is where the charity have been invaluable for us giving us helpful guidelines that we haven’t been able to get elsewhere and helping to support us to get the care that Lottie needs.

Although I have run marathons before, I have never trained and run a marathon with two young children, a difficult challenge and hopefully one worthy of a donation!

What is WSF?

WSF promotes research to help professionals / schools / families understand Williams Syndrome better and provides a support network to families as well as organising events within the Williams Syndrome community. 
More info here: https://williams-syndrome.org.uk/

Thank you to anyone who donates, it is really greatly appreciated!

Phil