For years, running a marathon is something I admired from a very safe distance. Now, I’ve signed up to run 42.2 kilometres at the tender age of 42. Coincidence? Fate? A mild lapse in judgement? Probably all three.

I still pinch myself at the thought of taking part in this incredible event, where thousands of runners take to the streets of this amazing capital city. The route includes iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace.

I won’t lie — this seemed like a better idea on paper! There will be early mornings, tired legs, and questionable life choices. But I’m taking on this amazing challenge for a great cause – the National Autistic Society (NAS) which is the UK's largest autism charity supporting over 700,000 people and their families across the country – and anyone who knows me knows that when I commit to a challenge, I really do commit.

So I will be running for the NAS, and I am hugely inspired by my daughter Leila, whom in her own little ways, reminds me that life is all about putting one foot in front of the other — even when it would be much easier not to!

Thank you for visiting my 2026 TCS London Marathon fundraising page. Please donate what you can, and do share my page if you can.

Thanks heaps!

Jalila