As a few will know I decided to enter Manchester marathon for this year - 27th April 2025.

Since entering the marathon, our little Theo was born, the baby boy of Laura & Simon who was diagnosed with SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) Type 1 - a rare, life limiting condition which causes muscle weakness and affects a baby’s ability to move, breathe and swallow.

Theo has since been receiving ongoing support and treatment since birth and recently had his gene therapy treatment. The gene therapy treatment alone is £1.78 million which we are ever so fortunate is accessible on the NHS. This will give Theo the best possible chance at life, however he will continue to require a lot of medical attention, appointments and specialist equipment in the future.

Therefore I have decided that I will be running both the Manchester marathon and the great Manchester half, in honour of Theo to raise as much money as I can for SMA UK, who have and continue to support Theo, Simon and Laura and other families facing the same challenges that SMA brings to their lives. Any donation, whether great or small, is appreciated to help Theo and all the other babies for the best possible chance in life. Theo you are our hero, this Is for you 💙

Established for almost 40 years, SMA UK are a charity that supports, campaigns and advocates so that everyone affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy can access the best care, services and treatments, and benefit from continued research.