In November of 2021, I was hit by a car driving over 50 miles per hour. I was left with a traumatic brain injury which meant that I was unable to sleep properly for months, faced trouble with sensory overload, and difficulty forming new memories. The support the Child Brain Injury Trust gave me and my family in learning how to deal with my new challenges meant that obstacles turned into opportunities, as I was provided with physiotherapy and help through neuropsychology appointments, schoolwork aids, even multiple operations – and my story is not unique.

Before my accident, I was a keen runner and regularly ran long distances, but my injuries left me unable to walk more than short stretches for several months. The thought of being able to return to the roads kept me motivated throughout my recovery, and running the 2024 Edinburgh Marathon would mark a significant personal achievement, as well as a perfect birthday present!

I will be running the marathon alongside my dad, who is the man with the hat in the picture.

If you can give anything to fund the wonderful work of the CBIT, please do. And if not, please share this page round with family and friends! No contribution is too small, and all are greatly appreciated.