I am genuinely surprised and excited to have secured a spot in the London Marathon 2025, and I see it as an incredible opportunity to not only challenge myself physically (10 years since my last marathon) but also to make a meaningful difference in the community.

As I lace up my running shoes for this marathon, I am dedicating my efforts to fundraising for the invaluable work of Hamelin. While many well-known charities have significant support, it's the local organisations like Hamelin that often rely on grassroots efforts to sustain their crucial services.

Hamelin supports autistic people and adults with learning disabilities across Essex to live their best lives and cultivate compassionate, equitable communities where they can realise their dreams.

There are around 40,000 autistic adults or people with learning disabilities in Essex, but only 10 percent receive regular funded support to live the life they want. Hamelin is there to meet the growing unmet demand which is why fundraising is so vital.

In 2022/23 Hamelin supported 400 people and their families. In 2023/24 709 people and their families were supported – an increase of 72% - and demand continues to grow.

A lot of this increase is made possible through donations to fund initiatives to support people in their communities through befriending, mentoring, social prescribing and day opportunities.

The date of the marathon is set for April 27, 2025, and my goal is to raise a minimum £1,000 in support of their mission. Your generous contribution will directly impact the lives of individuals in the community who depend on the essential services provided by Hamelin.

Together, let's make a tangible difference and show our support for this vital cause.