We’re running the London Marathon for Evelina Children’s Hospital, and this one is different.

In January 2025, our son Laurie was rushed into A&E. What followed were the most frightening days of our lives. At one point, his body was starting to shut down, one system at a time. Decisions were being made in minutes.

In 2025, Evelina London saved his life. Not once. Twice.

Because of them, Laurie is here today. Back at nursery. Back causing chaos. Back being himself.

We still see the teams there regularly, and we’re reminded every time just how extraordinary they are. The calm in the chaos. The skill under pressure. The way they treat every child like they’re the only one that matters.

This isn’t our first marathon (Ruth’s 8th, Mike’s 5th), but it will be our hardest. Training around work, life, and a toddler isn’t ideal prep, but that’s not really the point.

We’re running because we know what it feels like to sit in that room and not know if your child is going to be ok.

And we know what it means when they are.

Every year, more than 100,000 children are cared for by Evelina London. Donations help fund life-saving equipment, pioneering research, and the small things that make an unbearable situation just a bit easier for families.

For example:

£15 could help provide VR headsets to distract children during painful procedures

£25 could support sensory equipment for therapeutic play

£50 could contribute to vital research improving children’s care

If you’re able to donate, we’d be incredibly grateful.

Every mile we run is for Laurie. And for the families who are sitting in that same room right now.

Mike, Ruth & Laurie