In a lot of ways 2025 really hasn’t been my year so far, I’ve had surgery, set backs, bad news and tests, one of those set backs was that I had to pull out of taking part in the London marathon. This had been on my bucket list since I became a wheelchair user nearly 6 years ago. But here we are, and it is important to remember that in many ways this year has been brilliant for me, with the addition of my baclofen pump which is constantly administering medication to my spinal fluid I am more independent than ever. When I realised the London marathon was off the cards there were 2 important things for me, firstly make sure I secure a place for London marathon 2026, tick ✔️. Secondly sign up for another challenge to raise money for the incredible people who literally keep my head on my shoulders (particularly this year), so here we are, the big half is just under 9 weeks away and I am stuck into a meaty 12 week training plan!

I know I have asked this before and I will of course be asking again when it comes to the run up to the marathon but if you are able to spare a donation in sponsorship for me pushing 13 miles around London I would be so so grateful.

Since becoming a beneficiary in January 2020 I have cannot explain the ways in which the foundation have helped me, through rehab and counselling but also the community the foundation provides. I know that on any day of the week I can go to the get busy living centre and be around people I can relate to a second family who will forever be a part of my support network which I am eternally grateful for. I speak not only for myself but have seen so many lives changed and I know the plans Matt and the team have to expand the centre to make it bigger and better will change many, many more! But they can only do that with the help of fundraising and donations, so anything you can give really will make a difference.

Lots of love xxx

The Matt Hampson Foundation inspires and supports young people seriously injured through sport through its unique Get Busy Living centre in rural Leicestershire. The centre provides expert physiotherapy, specialist personal training, support, mentoring and advice to people suffering a life-changing injury.

The centre’s doors were opened in 2018 by Founder and ex-England and Leicester Tigers rugby player Matt Hampson, who himself experienced a life-changing injury in 2005.