I (Jigna) have never been a runner! I hated running when I was at school. Cross country and beep tests were the worst!!! I would avoid both of these as much as I could.

During lockdown I decided to give running another go. I downloaded the couch to 5K app and by week 3 I gave up! It was too hard and my legs hurt! These were the thoughts that kept running through my mind whilst I was running, so I had made up a theory in my mind that I’m just not made to run! My body just can’t handle the difficulty of running, the aches and pains were too much for me to continue. I told my self, it’s ok if I can’t run!!

Fast forward to late last year I saw my husband Nik participate in The Big Half in preparation for the London Marathon 2022 with his friends and it really got me thinking. Standing at the finish line cheering other participants on and eagerly waiting for Nik to finish, I saw people participating from all ages, shapes and sizes. When I saw a few who were less able than me to take part it really got to me. I was amazed to see them all achieve such a huge challenge. At this point I thought to myself, what excuse do I have when there are people with a disability who have taken part. This is when I decided I want to take part!

When we both signed up to the London Landmarks Half Marathon, as we scrolled through the list of charities we could run for, we saw that The Children’s Trust was on the list. Without hesitating we instantly decided that we wanted to run for this charity. 

For those that don’t know our nephew Kai, who was 2 at the time, was involved in a major road traffic accident in 2016 and suffered a severe brain injury due to this. Kai fought for many days and nights in hospital and came out of the hospital being the strong boy we know him as. Unfortunately his injuries were too severe to sustain a normal life a child would have. Kai stayed in care at the Children’s Trust for many months where he was able to go swimming, participate in lots of sensory activities and rehabilitation programs the Trust had to offer. 

When myself and Nik visited Kai at the trust, we were absolutely amazed at the level of care and attention Kai was receiving. He had his own room set up with lots of colour and characters on the wall for him to look at. Kai had everything he needed here to help him and we left that day walking out with a smile, knowing he was in the best care possible.

We can’t thank enough The Children’s Trust for all their care and support in looking after Kai. Kai is now 8 and is being looked after at home, where he is being cared for 24-7 round the clock, but this wouldn’t have been possible if he didn’t get the care he needed first at The Children’s Trust.

This run is for you Kai!!! Not also forgetting all the other children who have suffered from a brain injury and need the care and support from The Children’s Trust. We hope we make you proud Kai!!! 

Myself and Nik would like anyone reading this to help us with raising as much money as we can for this amazing charity. Any amount big or small is greatly appreciated.

Lots of love Jigna and Nikunj