I'm running the Brighton Marathon (my first) this year and am raising money for Microtia UK.

What is microtia you ask?

My one year old son, Dexter, was born without a fully formed ear and ear canal on his left side, while his right ear canal is smaller than normal. The condition, microtia (little ear) and atresia (absence of ear canal), affects 1 in 7,000 babies and can lead to a spectrum of hearing difficulties. This is usually due to sound waves not being able to get from outside to the cochlea, the place where sound is processed. The internal structures of the ear are usually correctly formed, meaning if the sound waves can reach it then sound can be heard.

Children with microtia can also sometimes face challenges in life that come from looking ‘different’ to others. Thankfully, Dexter is doing just fine as he has had great support and now sports two, rather fetching, bone conduction hearing aids (BAHAs) to help him hear in spite of not having an ear canal. However, some aren't as lucky and this is where charities like Microtia UK come in.

Microtia UK’s goal is to help people with microtia lead normal lives and give families access to all the information and support they need to make this a reality. The information they've provided us in Dexter's first year has been invaluable.

That's why I'm running to support Microtia UK, to ensure that Dexter and anyone else with the condition can continue to benefit from the excellent work they do.

If you can spare a few pounds to sponsor my efforts then I'll be very grateful indeed.

Thanks.

Toby