Why I'm Running- GOT ALLERGIES NO APOLOGIES!

As a mum of a child with serious allergies, I've seen first hand the daily challenges, worries, and careful planning that go into keeping our children safe. My daughter Iris lives bravely with allergies every day, navigating a world that can sometimes feel full of hidden dangers. My co-founder's son Leni faces similar challenges with his cow's milk allergy.

We are not alone. Thousands of families across the UK walk this same path, working tirelessly to keep their children safe while fighting for inclusion and normality in their lives. Sadly some families aren't so lucky and have needlessly lost someone special. Natasha's story resonates with me personally, there are so many parallels. Her Mum Tanya is one of my biggest inspirations, she's changed the landscape of allergy care and is the kindest, warmest of people.

That's why, despite my two dodgy knees and being relatively new to running again, I'm taking on the Brighton Marathon 2026 for Natasha's Foundation in Natasha's name.

About Natasha's Foundation

Natasha's Foundation was established by Tanya and Nadim Ednan-Laperouse following the tragic loss of their daughter Natasha, from a fatal allergic reaction. Through their grief, they've created a powerful force for change in the allergy landscape.

Their tireless advocacy has already transformed food labelling laws in the UK with Natasha's Law, but they didn't stop there. The foundation is now pioneering research into treatments that could change lives - particularly Oral Immunotherapy (OIT).

What is OIT and Why It Matters

Oral Immunotherapy is a promising treatment that works to minimise allergy sensitivity by gradually exposing individuals to tiny, then slowly increasing amounts of their allergen in a controlled, medical environment. This careful desensitisation process can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions and, in some cases, allow people to safely consume foods that were previously dangerous to them.

For families living with severe allergies, OIT represents more than a medical treatment - it offers hope for:

- Reduced anxiety about accidental exposure

- Greater freedom in social situations involving food

- Potentially life-saving protection against severe reactions

- A path toward more normal, less restricted lives

Your Donation Makes a Difference

I know times are tough for everyone right now, but your support - no matter the size - will help fund OIT research and treatment accessibility for families like mine. Every pound contributed helps bring this potentially life-changing treatment to more children and adults living with allergies.

Your donation could help:

- Fund clinical trials and research into improving OIT protocols

- Make OIT more widely available on the NHS

- Support families accessing private treatment in the meantime

- Develop better understanding of allergies and potential treatments

Running for Iris, Leni, and the allergy community

This marathon isn't about achieving a personal best time or ticking something off my bucket list. It's about standing up for my daughter Iris, for Leni, and for all the families who work tirelessly every day to keep their loved ones safe.

When my legs are tired and the miles seem long, I'll be thinking of the strength our allergy warriors show every single day, and the hope that Natasha's Foundation is giving to our community.

Please join me in supporting this vital cause. Together, we can help change the future for people living with allergies.

How to Donate

Follow the link

BIGGEST THANK YOU!

For Iris, for Leni, for Natasha, and for all those living with allergies.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.