A friend of mine ran the 2025 London Marathon just nine months postpartum. I was so inspired that I entered the ballot for 2026.

Unfortunately, I got a place.

Getting a place was a once in a lifetime opportunity, which definitely put on the pressure for accepting the spot. Slightly less impressive than nine months, I will be 15 months postpartum and the least fit I have ever been.

Struggling to find the time to train, and constantly battling the nursery germs, I have thought many times about pulling out, but recently the long runs have been long enough to make me think I can do it. It may take all day, but a day to myself might be quite nice..even if it hurts!

I can’t let the opportunity pass to raise a bit of money, though. So I have decided to run in aid of the Stroke Association. The donation will be made on behalf of my son, Wilson, in honour of his Great Grandpa, John Wilson Gibson.

Every day, another 240 people wake up to the catastrophic impact of a stroke.

With strength, determination and the right support, recovery is possible. Help us support all people affected by stroke.

The Stroke Association is the leading charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors like you that we can provide that vital support.