My Story

Help Elodie and other children with Sight Loss reach their full potential

I'm running the London Marathon in 2026 to raise funds for VICTA, a small but national UK charity that empowers children and young adults who are blind or partially sighted, along with their families.

Our beautiful daughter Elodie was born with a rare genetic condition called Albinism which means her body doesn’t produce enough melanin - the pigment that gives colour to skin, hair, and eyes. Because of this, her eyes didn’t develop fully.

In 2025, after years of hospital visits and tests, Elodie was officially registered as Severely Sight Impaired (SSI) or legally blind, at just 3 years old. Her vision cannot be corrected with glasses, and surgery isn’t an option. Her eyes will never 'get better' - all things we are often asked.

Other conditions associated with Albinism include extreme sensitivity to the sun (meaning suncream and protection all year round) you'll often see her in sunglasses, even if it isn't sunny. She also has Photophobia which makes her eyes extremely sensitive to light, and Nystagmus, a condition that causes her eyes to move uncontrollably - sometimes called 'dancing eyes' which can be very tiring. Everyday places that other children enjoy, like a park on a sunny day or a bright classroom, can be uncomfortable and overwhelming for her. When she needs to, she confidently uses her little white cane to help her navigate around.

Despite these challenges Elodie is fiercely independent. She is determined, curious, and brave. Her courage inspires us every day. She loves to sing and dance, and loves the opportunity to get involved with her big brothers when they're playing football.

Elodie's condition does not define her. We want her to dream big and believe anything is possible. 

With your support, we can give Elodie and other children like her the opportunities, resources, and encouragement they need to grow up confident, independent, and proud of who they are.

Every donation no matter how small, will help. Thank you for your support.

About VICTA:

VICTA believes every child has the right to an independent and fulfilling life. Using sport and activity-based learning, we create positive social settings that help young people and their families build skills, confidence, and connections.

Vision-impaired children face unique challenges, they are twice as likely to be bullied, and one in three experiences depression or other mental health issues.

Your support helps VICTA provide:

• Family activities that empower families through shared experiences.
• Inclusive sport opportunities where vision-impaired children can play, compete, and connect on their own terms.

Together, we can ensure every child has the chance to participate, grow, and thrive.