Thank you for visiting my page and taking the time to read my story.

In April, myself and my husband Matt will be running the London Marathon for Lung & Asthma UK — a charity incredibly close to our hearts, for two very personal reasons.

Reason 1: My own lung journey

At 14, my life changed overnight. I developed severe pneumonia, which led to a collapsed lung and sepsis. I spent two weeks on life support in a coma and a month in hospital. Stoke PICU saved my life more than once, and I’ll forever be grateful for the incredible care I received.

When I finally left hospital, I was diagnosed with Chronic Bronchiectasis — a lifelong condition that causes recurrent chest infections and scarring in my lungs, making breathing feel anything but natural.

Today, my lung disease is moderate to severe, with 51% lung function.

Growing up, I was always told to “take it easy,” and anything that caused breathlessness terrified me. But two years ago, I realised something needed to change. I started running — and honestly, it broke me at first. I cried after so many failed 5k attempts. But I kept going. Over time, I noticed something incredible: fewer infections, less severity, and for the first time, I felt like I was taking control of my lungs instead of being controlled by them.

Reason 2: My beautiful Mom

The second, and most powerful reason, is in memory of my Mom, who I heartbreakingly lost in May 2025.

She battled COPD and Bronchiectasis as a non-smoker, but it was an extremely rare lung condition — MDA5 ILD — that took her from us so suddenly. Mom’s illness progressed faster than anyone could manage. We supported her throughout, but she always remained so strong, brave, and a very proud woman. Losing her has been the most devastating experience of my life.

My mom gave me strength every single day, and she continues to do so.

Running — especially endurance running — became my way of managing grief, honouring her by fighting for my own lungs, and pushing myself further than I ever believed possible to show my children how important it is to fight against the odds.

Matt’s unwavering support

Since we got together, Matt has supported me in every way with my lung condition. He’s been my rock through all the highs and lows of living with bronchiectasis. When I decided to run, he was adamant about running alongside me, despite his own challenges. He’s been dealing with hip issues that make running difficult, but nothing could stop him from being there by my side — for me and in memory of mom who he loved dearly. His determination and support mean the world to me, and I couldn’t ask for a better partner in this journey.

Why I’m fundraising

I’m running the London Marathon to raise vital funds for Lung & Asthma UK, because people living with lung disease deserve:

Better understanding

Better treatment

Better support

Better research

Too many people are told to “take it easy,” just like I was. Too many families don’t get the answers or help they desperately need. And too many lives, like my mom’s, are impacted by conditions that aren’t fully understood.

Every donation means the world

By donating, you’re helping to change the future for people with lung disease — people like me, my mom, and so many others quietly fighting every single day.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for reading my story and supporting our marathon journey.

This one is for my lungs, for our children to see you never give up and for everyone who needs hope.

💜 Thank you.