As some of you may already know, I am running the London Marathon this year. Not only have I always had a personal ambition to run the marathon, and after a year where teaching took over my life I saw this as a perfect opportunity to set myself the target of doing it. I am also passionate about helping young people, and being given the chance to run in aid of the KIDS charity provided and extra special reason for me to get involved.

KIDS is a charity dedicated to ensuring that disabled children and their families can enjoy their lives, and realise their aspirations and potential. I am dedicated through my work as a teacher in a comprehensive school in North London to trying to help my pupils strive towards this. And feel strongly that all children, no matter their background, abilities or disabilites, should be given the right to experience life in an inclusive and supportive community.

The money that I raise will go towards a variety of different work that KIDS does: direct work with children and young people - including play and education visits, creches, short breaks for disabled children and community and residential playschemes. It will also go towards supporting families with disabled children and providing training for play, playwork  and childcare professionals who wish to include disabled children within their mainstream settings.

So, please support KIDS with the excellent work that they are doing, and me in reaching the 26.2 mile mark by donating anything you feel you can on this page. I will keep you updated on my progress - the highs and the lows - and will hopefully see you all on the other side......

Many thanks,

Jessica Lehmann