I'm Running for Team Whizz Kidz

In April 2027, I'll be taking on the biggest physical challenge of my life by running the London Marathon for Team Whizz Kidz.

And before that I will be taking on various other running challenges in the lead up to the big one, starting with the Swindon Half Marathon, a challenging hilly course that's really going to test me.

Whizz Kidz is the UK's leading charity supporting young wheelchair users up to the age of 25. More than 75,000 young people across the UK need a wheelchair to be mobile, yet many don't have access to one that's right for them. This can leave them facing social isolation, poor mental health and unnecessary physical challenges.

Whizz Kidz works tirelessly to provide the equipment, skills and confidence young wheelchair users need to lead fuller, more independent lives, while campaigning for a more accessible and inclusive society.

For me, this isn't just another charity.

When my son was 11 years old, his life changed almost overnight. A genetic condition meant that a previously active, sporty boy suddenly became dependent on an electric wheelchair for his mobility.

Unfortunately, despite the incredible work charities like Whizz Kidz do, they simply didn't have the resources to provide the specialist wheelchair he needed. As a family, we had to embark on a long fundraising journey to raise the money ourselves. During that time, he spent months effectively confined to his bedroom because he couldn't get out and live the life every child deserves.

No family should have to go through that.

Today, I'm incredibly proud of the young man he's become. He's now a coach and leader within Swindon Shock wheelchair basketball club, and is also pursuing a career with British Wheelchair Basketball, helping others discover the confidence, friendships and opportunities that sport can bring.

Organisations like Whizz Kidz play a vital role in helping young wheelchair users access opportunities like these, giving them the independence, confidence and belief to build fulfilling lives.

This marathon is also deeply personal for another reason.

Just over five years ago, I underwent a quadruple heart bypass after suffering a cardiac arrest while out on a run. My partner performed CPR that day and saved my life.

I've lived with Type 2 diabetes since my late teens and have battled my weight and health for many years. On top of that, I've endured two frozen shoulders, spending well over five years in total recovering from multiple operations and rehabilitation.

When I suffered my cardiac arrest in 2021, I was attempting to run just one continuous mile.

Today, after months of consistent training, I'm managing to run 10 miles in training and continuing to build towards my goal. Over the past eight months I haven't missed a week of training, completing at least twi gym sessions every week, and for the past five months I've averaged four runs each week. My next milestone is a half marathon this September as I continue preparing for London.

Running 26.2 miles once felt completely impossible.

Now it's my goal.

Every mile I train, every early morning run, every gym session and every difficult day is driven by two things: proving to myself what's possible after everything that's happened, and helping ensure more young people receive the support that can change their lives.

If you're able to support me, no matter how big or small the donation, you'll be helping Whizz Kidz get closer to a future where every young wheelchair user is mobile, enabled and included.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story, and thank you for any support you can give. It genuinely means a great deal to me and to the young people Whizz Kidz helps every day.