I'm running this year’s London marathon to support Just4Children charity. Just4Children are raising funds to support the ongoing costs of private physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and specialist equipment to enable Theo to thrive in his future of fighting SMA.

Theo is the son of a close family friend. When he arrived in July 2024, unexpected symptoms meant he was admitted to NICU at just five hours old. He was later diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1 — a rare neuromuscular condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and affects breathing, swallowing, limb movement, sitting, crawling, and walking.

In January 2025, Theo received gene therapy, but he still needs ongoing physiotherapy and hydrotherapy to maintain muscle function and improve mobility. His family currently self fund fortnightly physio sessions costing £90 each. Theo’s therapies will be lifelong, and as he grows, he will also need specialist equipment and home adaptations to support his development.

I'm excited and a little apprehensive to return to the London Marathon - and now as a mum of two, I'm reminded how fortunate we are. I'm running to give a little support to Theo and his parents, Laura and Simon, when they need it most.