After quite a few years, I’ve finally got my wish of running the London Marathon 2026 and I'm determined to make my miles more meaningful by being part of the amazing charity, Team Whizz Kidz!

Whizz Kidz is the UK’s leading charity supporting young wheelchair users up to the age of 25. They empower children and young people with the equipment, support, and confidence-building experiences they need to live active, independent lives — something I understand the value of on a deeply personal level.

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Why Whizz Kidz? Why Me?

Growing up with cerebral palsy, I spent 16 years in physio, wore day and night splints, specialist boots, had hot, scratchy casts of my leg made and countless appointments to help me move more freely. It wasn’t easy, but I was lucky to get the support I needed - and it’s why I’m so passionate about making sure others get the same chance.

I’m now also a proud mum of two children, one of which lives with autism, ADHD, global developmental delay (GDD), dyslexia and sensory processing difficulties. Although Thomas doesn’t need a wheelchair, he attend a SEN school for children with complex needs, many of whom do. I see first-hand how vital the right equipment is for their independence, inclusion, and quality of life.

Being able to run is something I never take for granted. I run because I can - and I run for those who can’t. That’s what makes this marathon journey even more meaningful.

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The Challenge Ahead

Running 26.2 miles is no small feat — but neither is raising £2,100 for a charity. It’s a big challenge, but one I’m fully committed to. Over the next 11 months, I’ll be organising fundraisers and using every ounce of creativity to hit that target. If you can give anything at all, you’ll not only be helping me reach the finish line, but more importantly, you’ll be changing lives.

Did you know that over 75,000 young people in the UK rely on wheelchairs for mobility, yet many can’t access the equipment that truly meets their needs through local services? That’s where Whizz Kidz steps in — and with your support, we can help even more families.

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What Your Donation Can Do

Your donation isn’t just helping me run a marathon — it’s helping to:

• Fund custom wheelchairs and mobility equipment

• Offer life skills programmes for young disabled people

• Provide mentoring, work placements, and confidence-building activities

• Create a more accessible, inclusive society

To learn more about the impact of Whizz-Kidz, visit:

👉 https://www.whizz-kidz.org.uk/about-us/our-impact

Let’s Do This - Together 💪

Whether it’s £2 or £200, every single donation makes a difference. If you can’t give right now, please consider sharing this page to spread the word.

I’m so excited (and slightly terrified!) to be running one of the world’s most iconic races, but knowing I’m doing it for such a worthy cause will keep me going — especially when my legs want to give up.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting me, Thomas, and the thousands of children Whizz Kidz helps every year. Let’s make those 26.2 miles count!

With love,

Tarnya 💛

#TeamWhizzKidz #LondonMarathon2025