Ladies and gentlemen, and fellow runners,

Today, I stand before you, not just as a runner, but as a parent driven by an unwavering purpose. I am here to share with you the deeply personal reason why I have chosen to embark on this incredible journey—the London Marathon. While this race is a test of physical endurance, it is also a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience.

My story begins with a moment that forever changed my life—the day my daughter was diagnosed with meningitis at three weeks old. It was a time when our world turned upside down, and every second felt like an eternity. But it was also a time that shaped the person I am today—a person fueled by a desire to make a difference.

During that week in the hospital, I witnessed the true heroes of our society: the doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who dedicated themselves to making my daughter better. Their tireless efforts, coupled with the love and support of our family and friends, helped us navigate through the darkest of times.

Today, my daughter stands here with me, a vibrant and thriving young soul, a living testament to the miracles that can happen when we never lose hope. She has taught me the true meaning of strength and resilience, and it is in her honor that I lace up my running shoes and take on the London Marathon.

Running this marathon is not just a personal challenge or a mere feat of physical endurance. It is an opportunity for me to give back, to raise awareness, and to support the fight against meningitis. I want to ensure that no other parent has to go through the heartache and helplessness that my family experienced.

As I pound the pavements of London, each step will be a symbol of hope, a stride towards a future where no child suffers from this devastating disease. Through this marathon, I aim to raise funds for research, education, and support programs that can make a lasting impact on the lives of families affected by meningitis.

But I cannot do this alone. I stand here today to ask for your support and encouragement. Every donation, no matter how small, will contribute to the noble cause we are championing. Together, we can create a world where no parent has to endure sleepless nights, anxiety, and the heart-wrenching uncertainty that meningitis brings.

So, as I cross that finish line, I will not only celebrate my personal achievement, but I will also celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless compassion that exists within our communities. I will celebrate the life of my daughter and the countless children who have battled meningitis. And most importantly, I will celebrate the hope that through our collective efforts, we can eradicate this disease once and for all.

Thank you for your support, your generosity, and your belief in the power of a united community. Together, let us make a difference, one step at a time.

Thank you.