In April 2026, I will be taking on the challenge of running the London Landmarks Half Marathon to support ME Association, a charity providing support and help for people with ME/CFS and long COVID.

Increasing awareness and understanding of ME/CFS is a cause I feel very passionate about. It is estimated that at least 404,000 people in the UK have ME/CFS. In addition, 950,000 people unable to recover from a Covid infection could meet the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS. This could mean that 1,350,000 adults and children in the UK are affected by ME/CFS. One of whom is my daughter Amy.

The impact of this condition can not be underestimated.

As a parent of a child with ME, I am taking this opportunity to increase awareness and understanding of this life-changing illness. In 2021, my daughter fell ill with COVID. We thought she’d recover with a little time and rest. Months passed, and nothing seemed to help. Despite many tearful doctor appointments and meetings, neither medical nor school professionals were able to offer any support or even acknowledge Amy’s deteriorating condition. She became increasingly ill, in pain, withdrawn and depressed. She was no longer able to attend school, dropped GCSEs, socialising with friends and family was too overwhelming, and even going into the garden became too much.

Now 18, Amy has been living with ME for 4 years, her life is unrecognisable to that of her peers.

Amy is incredibly strong and positive- which never ceases to amaze me. She remains largely housebound, with her daily routine consisting of moving between her bed and the sofa. Over time, she has learnt to manage her limited energy, and forward planning is a must. Any trips or visits from friends are major events that she really looks forward to, despite the inevitable exhaustion and pain that follow.

Amy hates attention and doesn’t like to make a fuss. She has the brightest smile, rarely complains, and will do all she can to hide the pain she is in and the effort it takes each day for her to just be.

I have no idea what the future holds for Amy and the countless others in her position. If I could change anything, it would be for people to really ‘get it’. ME is not just people being a bit tired, the list of symptoms is long and unpredictable, daily tasks we all take for granted- getting dressed, showering, even talking to family and friends all have a physical consequence for Amy.

Any donation you could make to support would be great too, as little is known or understood about this illness. There is no treatment and very little knowledge about ME; the work of ME Association and similar charities is vital in supporting families like mine who are dealing with this awful condition.