Kerry Cox is running London 2026 for a future that better understands neurodivergence
My Story
Like so many families, we’ve been on a journey. We stepped into parenthood pretty uninformed about neurodivergence, clueless about the broken SEND system, and blind to the battles so many families face daily while advocating for their children.
And so many of the women I work with — especially those in perimenopause — are only now recognising signs of neurodivergence that were missed or misdiagnosed for decades. Gender, hormones, and masking all play a role in how neurodivergence is expressed — and too often, misunderstood.
And therein lies the problem. This lack of understanding leads to devastating statistics around mental health and suicide in neurodivergent communities — even before you factor in the additional impact of gender, race, and other intersecting experiences. No one should spend their life hiding their true self, feeling lesser, broken, or pathologised.
I want to be part of a future where neurodivergent people are not only supported but celebrated — not in spite of who they are, but because of it. And because the world is a better place for it.
Autistica’s work speaks directly to that vision. Their focus on mental health, long-term outcomes, and community-led research is transformative. They’re not just advancing science — they’re helping shape a world that listens more, understands better, and supports more fully. And I’m so proud to be running the London Marathon in 2026 to raise funds for them.
If you’re able to support me, THANK YOU. Every donation — however small — every share, and every word of encouragement matters. As someone who came last (or was terrible!) in almost every race or sport growing up — and who only took up running in her 40s — this is going to be a physical and mental challenge far bigger than it may look. Don’t be fooled by my PT background! But I’m nothing if not determined 😉 and my sights are firmly set on both the fundraising target and that finish line next April.
Together, we can help create a world where no one has to fight so hard just to be understood.
