In March 2022, at 7 months' old, my daughter Phoebe was diagnosed with a rare 9P chromosome deletion which, amongst other things, causes global development delay, neurological spasms and additional health conditions. The detailed information about Phoebe's condition that Unique provided at the time was a life line for us when Phoebe was diagnosed.

Unique is an open, supportive community for people who are looking to learn, share lived experiences and connect with others whose life has been touched by rare chromosome or gene disorders. They are here to support and celebrate people living truly unique lives.

Unique now support more than 34,000 members worldwide, connecting families across the globe through trusted information, emotional support, and shared experience. That’s why, for Rare Chromo Day 2026 - on 25th June 2026, they’re aiming to raise £34,000 - representing every family in their community and helping to continue providing life-changing support, guidance, and connection to those who need it most.

To help them raise their £34,000 target, they are kicking off a challenge to complete a staggering 3 BILLION steps collectively through sponsored challenges, fundraising events, and community activities.

I'm supporting their mission by running Parkrun every weekend in June wearing wellies. That's four 5K runs across the month in WELLIES - the equivalent to about 28,000 steps! I will also be doing as much other walking and running as I can throughout the month to build up my step count!

Why wellies?!

To follow in the footsteps (excuse the pun) of another wonderful Unique fundraiser who recently ran the London Marathon in wellies, I'm doing my bit to continue this crazy feat (no pun intended!) and start a unique tradition of welly running.

I'd appreciate any support you're able to show by donating to the cause.

Thank you

Jude x