I am running the 2026 London Marathon because I want to help Meningitis Research Foundation achieve their goal of a world free from meningitis.

Yes I know, another week, another ask for fundraising 🫣 but this is worth the time and reading…

Those close to me and who have been following my story know that I have a life changing health episode in January 2023, for which I had emergency surgery on my brain after a bleed caused by a previously unknown birth defect. The recovery was enormous after being in induced coma for nearly a week; learning to read, write and speak again, as well as weakness in the right side of my body and permanent damange to my vision on my right eye.

One area I speak of less is the 2 weeks following my initial brain surgery in which I developed meningitis as a result of complications of my initial surgery. This was equally as terrifying and meant a further 3 weeks in hospital when I was very frightened, lonely and unsure of what life would be like for me. I developed complex pain from this and required further surgery later in 2023 on my brain.

I have been given the absolute honour to raise money for this charity. Whilst this was horrifying to experience, I have had a full recovery with some minor long term complications. Whilst these frustrate me day to day I never minimise my luck and blessings to be so well and living my life still. Meningitis is a cruel and horrible disease which charities such as these fund their research and development into its treatment.

One way I recognise my blessings and recovery has been running - I completed my fourth half marathon in my recovery a few weeks ago. To say I am terrified about the London Mararhon is an understatement but I am unbelievably proud and motivated to be here.

Anything you can contribute will make a world of difference.

Rach xxx