If you've been following me on social media, you'll know I've been running a lot this year, and it's not just for fun! I'm both excited and a little nervous to announce a big challenge: I'm committing to run three half marathons in spring 2026 to raise funds for the Sickle Cell Society.

What Is Sickle Cell Disorder?

Sickle cell disorder (SCD) is a serious, lifelong inherited blood condition. It affects the haemoglobin in red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Normally, red blood cells are round and flexible, but with sickle cell disorder, they can become hard, sticky, and C-shaped, like a sickle. These sickle cells can block small blood vessels, leading to severe episodes of pain known as sickle cell crises. Over time, this can cause significant damage to vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart, and it can even be fatal.

While anyone can have sickle cell, it's most common among people of African and Caribbean descent. In the UK, it's estimated that 17,500 people are living with the condition, and almost 300 babies are born with it each year.

Despite being one of the most common genetic blood conditions in the UK, care for sickle cell patients still falls behind other rare conditions. A recent study found that SCD patients have significantly fewer specialist nurse, just 0.5 per 100 patients, compared to 2 per 100 for conditions like cystic fibrosis.

Research into sickle cell receives only 40% of the funding allocated to cystic fibrosis.

The Sickle Cell Society

The Sickle Cell Society is the only national charity in the UK dedicated to supporting people with sickle cell. Since 1979, their passionate team has worked tirelessly to improve quality of life for those affected through support, advocacy, education, and research.

They run local support groups, offer mentoring and educational resources, host seminars, and campaign to ensure everyone affected receives high quality, compassionate care.

Why This Matters to Me

This cause is incredibly close to my heart. Someone I love dearly lives with sickle cell, and I've seen firsthand the pain it causes and their unbelievable strength in facing it every day.

Running for the Sickle Cell Society isn't just about raising money, it's my way of honouring them and helping to shine a light on the vital work the charity does.

My Half Marathon Challenge

• Brighton Half Marathon – 1st March 2026

• Kew Gardens Half Marathon – 29th March 2026

• Hackney Half Marathon – 17th May 2026

How You Can Help

Your support, no matter the amount, will make a huge difference. Every donation helps the Sickle Cell Society continue its critical work, from providing patient support to funding groundbreaking research.

Please donate today to help me reach my goal and support this amazing cause.

Thank you so much for your support! Keep an eye on my social media for training updates and race day coverage.

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