In May, I’ll be running the Exeter Marathon in support of two close friends whose little girl, Leni, is facing an unimaginably cruel diagnosis.

I met Leni’s parents, Emily and Gus, while we were all students at the University of Exeter, so running the Exeter Marathon to support their family feels especially meaningful.

At just two years old, Leni has been diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome Type B (MPS IIIB) — an extremely rare and rapidly neurodegenerative genetic condition, often described as childhood dementia.

Children with this condition are born appearing healthy, but over time they lose the skills they’ve learned. It leads to severe behavioural challenges, loss of cognitive and motor function, and ultimately a shortened life.

There is currently no cure, but promising treatments are in development which could give Leni a real chance — and urgency is everything.

I’m aiming to raise £500 to help her family access treatment as quickly as possible.

If you can donate any amount, it would mean the world. And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this page would help hugely in spreading awareness.

You can also keep up with her journey on Instagram at @saving_Leni and find a link to her main fundraising page there.

Thank you so much for your kindness and support.