This May, Kim and I are taking on the challenge to each run 100 miles. The miles are in addition to any normal steps that we would do. There are 31 days in May, and so if we break it down, it works out at roughly 3miles a day, easy right??...

Well, speaking for myself, I have shied away from activity since having my two children, made all the excuses - no time, childcare, tired… anything I could think of to get me out of it, until now.

3rd May marks the start of Cleft Lip and Palate Awareness Week a time to reflect, share stories and spread awareness of the condition to help and support those born with cleft and their families.

A cause very close to my heart as my son was born with a bilateral cleft lip and complete cleft palate in April 2024.

We are taking on this challenge to raise money for CLAPA – Cleft Lip and Palate Association, a UK charity that is there to support, provide advice and connect young people and families effected by cleft.

Ellis has undergone 2 operations so far in his short 11 months, with a 3rd planned for early April. These operations have so far corrected the cleft in his hard palate and reconstructed his top lip. He is on a medical pathway which will span 20 years, and very likely beyond. Having received the diagnosis at my 20 week scan, I used the resources made available by CLAPA to learn more.

My husband was also born with a cleft, 40 years ago, and the support has changed so much in this time and is invaluable for families.

Over 1,200 babies are born with a cleft each year in the UK, it is caused when the baby’s face does not develop correctly in the womb. The result is the lip, gums and the roof of the mouth have gaps and do not join up.

We will keep you updated with progress along the way and in the meantime if you feel that you are able to donate to this worthy charity, then we would be very grateful.

Claire xx

Kim says –

I have always liked running but, as it does, life happened and I fell out of a regular routine. I have always tried to remain active, going to the gym and playing badminton with my friends so would like to think I have an okay level of fitness!

When Claire mentioned she was going to do this, I jumped at the chance, not only would it provide me with extra motivation but it is such a worthwhile cause I couldn’t say no!

Witnessing how Ellis, along with his parents Claire and James, and their wider family, have responded to the diagnosis has been truly inspiring. Claire and James have seamlessly adapted all elements of Ellis’ care, including bottle feeding and weaning to meet his needs, showcasing their dedication and resilience throughout. Their journey is a testament to the strength and support they provide to each other and their wider families.

Claire's commitment to raising awareness and supporting others affected by cleft conditions motivates me to contribute to this cause and hopefully help make a difference.

It’s about time we took on our next challenge together too, having completed the three peaks challenge (quite a few!) years ago.

Kim xx