Hi! My name is Gaveena and I am fundraising for the National Autistic Society ahead of completing the TCS London Marathon 2026 ☺️.

I am taking on this marathon with NAS for my sister! Bell was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. As I've grown up with her, I have seen the importance of awareness, understanding and support for autism.

Autism can be especially hard to spot in girls, and many are overlooked or misdiagnosed for years. We were lucky enough get a diagnosis for my sister at an early stage of her life, however, many families may not have the same experience. That’s one of the reasons I’ve chosen to support NAS, they provide education for families and employers, ensuring that everyone is able to be educated about autism and how it can impact someones daily life.

Alongside her autism diagnosis, my sister was very recently diagnosed with a TLK2 gene variant, a genetic condition caused by changes in the TLK2 gene. There are only a few hundred known cases in the world, which makes it incredibly rare! The variant can affect development, speech, learning, social interaction and even physical appearance. Having the diagnosis allows us to better understand Bell and her strengths and weaknesses for the future.

Bell is now 13 years old! I couldn’t be more proud of her and everything she has achieved. To be running for her feels incredibly special. I hope to raise awareness of the importance of truly understanding autism, as well as the need for better and earlier diagnoses, for both autism and conditions like TLK2 variation, so that more families can get the answers and support they deserve.

I am grateful for every read of her story, share and donation, all helping to support families and educate more people. 🤗💜

(PS. the picture shows both me and her enjoying her favourite ride at Alton Towers, being the 'In the Night Garden - Boat Ride', despite her going on all the thrill seeking rides with me just before it!)

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/identity/autistic-women-and-girls - a link to learn more about autism!

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