London Marathon for Demelza

Why I'm running the London Marathon for Demelza

Demelza is an amazing charity that has had a huge impact on my life and the lives of my family.

In April 2002, my older brother William was born with severe cerebral palsy, which left him unable to speak and with significant physical disabilities. This was an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for my parents. William was their first child, and they were unaware of how his condition would affect his life and the future of our family.

Three years after William was born, my parents decided to have me, Harvey, followed another three years later by my sister, Martha. Growing up as a family with a child with complex needs can bring many challenges, and this is where charities such as Demelza make such an important difference. They provide care and support for the whole family, in whatever way is needed, when caring for a child with a life-limiting condition.

Throughout William's life, Demelza provided him with short breaks, music therapy, hydrotherapy and access to sensory rooms. All of these services had a significant impact on William's quality of life. Because of the severity of his condition, he relied heavily on these experiences to interact with and experience the world around him. Demelza gave him opportunities that otherwise would have been incredibly difficult for him to access.

Sadly, in 2019, William passed away. During what was an incredibly difficult period for our family, Demelza did not leave our side. One of my most comforting memories from that time was visiting Demelza in the days following William's death. The support, compassion and sensitivity shown by the staff meant an enormous amount to us as a family during such a fragile and emotional time.

Importantly, Demelza's care did not stop after William's death. They have continued to support our family to this day, demonstrating the same dedication to us after his death as they did throughout his life.

Having experienced first-hand the incredible difference Demelza can make to a family, I felt that I had to do something to show my support and appreciation for everything they have done for us over the years.

That is why I will be running the 2027 London Marathon in support of Demelza and in memory of my older brother, William.

Running the marathon will be a huge personal challenge, but it is one that I am incredibly proud to take on. I hope that by doing so, I can raise money and awareness for a charity that has given my family so much, while carrying William's memory with me.