Marlie's Journey — Why I'm Walking 100 Miles This October

This one's personal.

My daughter Marlie is partially deaf. It's been part of her story for as long as I can remember — something she's grown up navigating with a strength I don't think she even realises she has. In November, she faces her 5th surgery on her ears since 2023. Fifth. It's a number that makes me pause every time I say it, because behind it are years of appointments, recoveries, and a little girl who just keeps getting on with things.

The National Deaf Children's Society has been part of that journey too — a steady, knowledgeable presence for families like ours, when the world of hearing loss can feel confusing and isolating from the outside.

So this October, I'm walking and running 100 miles. Not because it will fix anything, but because I want to do something with the love and the worry and the pride I feel for her — and because I want other families walking this same road to have the same support we've had.

Every mile is for Marlie. Every pound raised is for the next family just starting out. Thank you for being part of it. 💙

Together we can help support deaf children and their families. Please donate generously and make a real difference today.

£24 could answer 4 calls to our Helpline from parents who have just found out their child is deaf, reassuring them they’re not alone.

£44 could provide an online session empowering parents to make sure their deaf child gets the right support at school.

£100 could fund one-to-one support for 3 families, helping them to secure the support they need.