Running the Abingdon Marathon for Lennox 💙

On 18th October 2026, I’ll be running the Abingdon Marathon to raise as much money as possible for the Paediatric Critical Care Unit (PCC Unit) at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford — a place that has become incredibly important to our family.

My son, Lennox Rhodes, is just 10 months old, and he has already faced more than most. At only 4 months old, Lennox underwent surgery for a diaphragmatic eventration — a condition where part of the diaphragm is weakened. Shortly after, in February 2026, we relocated to Cyprus for my work at RAF Akrotiri, hoping for a fresh chapter.

But in late March, Lennox became seriously ill with bronchiolitis. He was admitted to Makarios Hospital in Nicosia and placed into intensive care. After a week, he was flown back to the UK and transferred straight into PCC Unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, where he has remained ever since.

During this time, Lennox has been diagnosed with SMARD1 — an extremely rare genetic condition that causes severe muscle weakness and affects his ability to breathe independently. It’s a life-limiting condition with no cure, and our world has changed forever.

Despite everything, the care and compassion shown by the PCC team has been nothing short of incredible. They haven’t just cared for Lennox — they’ve supported us as a family through the hardest time of our lives. Their dedication, kindness, and strength are something we will never forget.

This fundraiser is our way of giving something back.

Every pound raised will go towards supporting the PCC team, helping them continue the amazing work they do for children like Lennox and families like ours.

Running a marathon is nothing compared to what Lennox faces every single day — but it’s something I can do to try and make a difference.

Thank you so much for your support, kindness, and generosity. It truly means everything to us.

Marcus, Lauren, Mirabelle & Lennox 💙