In November 2014, my daughter Chloe was nine years old, when she was diagnosed with a life-long health condition. Her life changed significantly and suddenly. Daily medicine taking, frequent blood tests and regular trips to the hospital became a part of her and our new normal.

Having an invisible disability can be a tough and lonely path to tread at times and the amazing kindness and love of our friends (you know who you are) and family (my mum and sisters - always) has mattered more than ever. We have also become part of a bigger community of support networks and are incredibly grateful to Kate, Jo, many different nurses, phlebotomists, Dr Shankar and Dr Hii at the Royal Alex; Dr Slattery and our GP’s pharmacist; the staff of Patcham High School; Liz Greenan, Steve Guthrie, Chutima, Nicky Rutson; Emma Jardine; Michele Winter: JP, Munya, Pip and Ellie at Streetfunk, Visual Poets and Project Female, as well as the fantastic dancers they nurture and the best Dance Dad; my amazing managers and colleagues at EALS; Lisa and the BHWRC; the many waiters/waitresses/chefs at cafés/restaurants who’ve shown patience and care over our tricky dietary needs; the magnificent Maia; and of course the G girls -‘I’ve got all my sisters with me.’

It’s true when they say - it takes a village to raise a child.

During a particular tough few months last year AMAZE joined our support network as we grappled with the logistics and bureaucracy of seeking more support for ourselves and Chloe. AMAZE gave us bespoke and personal support and advice at a time when we felt at our lowest ebb. Every day in the UK, children with disabilities are struggling to get their needs met, either at school or by the DWP.  AMAZE play a vital role in Brighton and East Sussex advocating for and supporting disabled children and their families. 

If you feel you can donate to AMAZE that would be wonderful. They have given me hope that people with disabilities are still valued, considered and cared for within a brutal welfare system.

I’m not going to run the half marathon in a fast time, but I am going to run it in a positive spirit thinking of the many wonderful people who make my daughter’s life the best it can be. 

Thank you.