I’m running the London Marathon 2025 to raise money for Starlight, the UK’s leading charity for children’s play in hospitals and hospices, because I truly believe in the power of play to transform the lives of seriously ill children. This will be my third marathon, following my runs in 2005 and 2015, but this one holds a special place in my heart. I’m doing it in honour of my late father, who was a huge advocate for playtime when I was a child, always encouraging creativity and fun.

My experience working in General Practice and Paediatrics has shown me how crucial play can be for children facing illness, not just for their physical health, but for their mental well-being too. Starlight’s work is so important because they ensure that every child has the opportunity, space, and time to experience play, which evidence shows can reduce fear, pain, and trauma during treatment and recovery. They also campaign to protect every child’s right to play, making sure this essential part of childhood is never overlooked. Supporting Starlight through this marathon feels like a way to honour my dad’s legacy and help bring moments of joy, comfort, and resilience to children who need it most.

Starlight are passionate about protecting every child's right to play, which takes them to the bedsides of some of the most poorly children in the UK, and making sure they have the tools to play through their anxiety, fear and loneliness.

Life in hospital isn't easy, especially when you're young. Suddenly you find yourself in a strange and lonely place full of unfamiliar sights and sounds.

In donating, you are directly helping children to cope with serious illness by giving them tools to manage these times when they need it most. Not only this, but you're also helping to support their siblings and parents by providing vital funds to provide them with funding family breaks and away days, giving them a chance to make comforting, life lasting memories together, no matter what the future may bring.

If you can donate, any donation no matter the size is massively appreciated.