In 2025, I was diagnosed with Axial Spondyloarthritis (Axial SpA), a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine and joints.

The diagnosis finally gave an explanation for something I had been struggling with for years. Before being diagnosed, I experienced recurring inflammation, pain, stiffness, and a seemingly endless cycle of injuries that repeatedly disrupted my running. There were times when I couldn't understand why my body wasn't responding like it should, despite my determination to stay active and keep moving forward. From running my first- and, to date, only- marathon in 2019 to months where I struggled to walk up the stairs at home, it became hard to imagine a time when I would be able to run again.

Receiving a diagnosis was a turning point. It provided answers, access to specialist support, and a better understanding of how to manage the condition.

Running has always been important to me, and rather than allowing Axial SpA to define what I can and can't do, I've decided to set myself a challenge that once seemed impossible:

12 marathons in 12 months.

This challenge isn't just about running 26.2 miles twelve times. It's about raising awareness of a condition that often goes undiagnosed for years, supporting others who are going through the same journey, and raising funds for the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS).

NASS provides vital support, education, and advocacy for people living with Axial SpA, helping individuals get diagnosed sooner and live better with the condition.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help support their work and is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for supporting me and helping make a difference for everyone affected by Axial Spondyloarthritis.

Challenge details:

- Each calendar month from July 2026 to June 2027, I will run at least 1 Marathon distance run (26.2 mile/ 42.2 kilometres).

- Where possible and finances permitting, I will enter and complete timing-verified and officially recorded events.

- Some events may be 'loops', with the purpose being to complete as many loops as possible within a certain timeframe. For these, the aim will be to at least run marathon distance.

- Depending on fitness and progress, and health permitting, I may on certain months choose to run an ultra-marathon event or more than one event in the month.

- If I am not able to enter an official event, for whatever reason, I will complete at least 1 marathon distance run using my fitness tracker. In this event, I would hope to be able to run with someone else who can verify the run was completed to distance.