We're thrilled to be donning our running shoes and taking on the iconic London Marathon! The world-famous London Marathon route has remained largely unchanged since the inaugural race in 1981 and encompasses many of the capital's most mesmerising landmarks, old and new.

What does a donation mean for Leonard Cheshire?

Leonard Cheshire is a pan-disability charity that strives to ensure people are able to live, learn and work whatever their ability. As well as providing tailored care services and award-winning programmes for supporting disabled people in employment; Leonard Cheshire also carries out vital research into accessibility.

According to Sport England, people with disabilities are twice as likely to be physically inactive compared to those without disabilities.

This issue came into sharp focus during the pandemic, when many organised activities and exercise facilities had to close their doors, making it even harder for people with disabilities to find ways to keep active.

Wherever possible, we quickly adapted our programmes to provide support online and in 2020/21 we supported more than 2,900 people with disabilities to get active through our inclusive cycling, physical activity and dance programmes in the UK.

We need your donations so that we can continue to support people with disabilities to get active and live as independently as they choose.

Dave's story

Dave lives at Gloucestershire House, Leonard Cheshire's care home in Cheltenham for disabled adults. Dave was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) in his late twenties. CMT affects the nervous system and is progressive, leading to a loss of muscle tissue and a loss of sensation. In 2019, when he was in his fifties, Dave felt that he needed more support to be able to live as independently as possible and moved to Gloucestershire House.

Since the move, Dave has been keen to improve his physical and mental health by getting as much exercise as possible. Gloucestershire House is fortunate to have a new therapy suite and, until the pandemic struck, Dave was able to exercise there four to five times a week.

Dave says:

Supported by the physiotherapy team and the care staff, Dave set about organising a series of long-distance virtual cycling challenges for fellow residents of the care home, using the two therapy bikes there including covering the distance from Land's End to John O'Groats! The equipment was routinely sanitized and transported between the care home's lodges so that residents could stay safe while participating in the challenges. The team spirit was such a boost to everyone's morale during the darkest days of the pandemic.

Dave says:

So, what does a donation mean, not only for Dave but also for the other people cared for and supported by Leonard Cheshire? Here are just some of the things the money you raise could go toward:

£45 could buy a large key keyboard, making it easier for someone with a visual impairment or dexterity issues to type and become more employable by developing their digital skills.

£160 could pay for specialist voice recognition software, enabling someone to increase their independence by using online services with just their voice.

£250 could buy an assistive device such as a wheelchair or hearing aid for a disabled child in Africa or Asia so that they can go to school and gain an education

By taking on the London Marathon you're helping us continue our care, campaigning, research and more. Thank you for supporting Leonard Cheshire.