In 2024, despite years of lamenting my hatred of running - I'm extremely excited to be running the London Marathon for Team Retina UK.

Those who know me, usually also know and love my mum, Amanda—affectionately known as 'Mandy' by almost all my friends despite that never being a nickname she agreed to, or endorsed. In her 30's she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa - a condition that causes degenerative vision loss. She navigates this disease every day, with boundless positivity despite the fact it's taken away 98 percent of her vision. What she has lost in sight, she has made up for in amazing vibes, fancy holidays and delicious wine and i'm amazed by her every day.

That’s why I’ve decided to run the London Marathon for Retina UK, the only charity I’d ever consider supporting because it directly impacts my family. This disease is inherited and so who knows, this could even go on to support me, my brother or our families into the future too.

Up until this year, I hated running. truly hated it - But after watching and supporting at the marathon last year, I was really moved by the power of the event and the amount of people doing a crazy thing to raise money for amazing causes. Your support will not only keep me moving toward the finish line but will also propel vital research for inherited sight loss conditions—something that means the world to my Mum and to me.

I promise, since i began training - I have now decided that i love it - i've bought a sports watch, gone full speedy trainers and will continue to do so to make everyone proud and hopefully raise lots of cash.

I'll be completing my first half marathon in October at the Richmond Riverside Half and from there - the big one next year in May.

Retina UK is the only UK charity dedicated solely to working for people affected by inherited sight loss. By supporting #TeamRetinaUK, you'll help provide information and support so people can lead better lives today and fund medical research for treatments for the future. Thank you.