My Story

If you had said to me 2 years ago that I would be going to run the London marathon I would have laughed. I was over 22 stone and got out of breath doing my shoe laces up. 
I decided enough was enough when I was watching the London marathon 2024 with family. I said I would love to do that and my Nan said “you’re too fat to do that”. That was the kick up the arse I needed. 
I started my weight loss journey and started running, beginning with the Couch to 5k. I met John Hill - 12 months to marathon - who coached me to my first 10k run in February and have since done 3 half marathons one of which was The Great North Run. My best time to date is 1:56 and I’m now 8 stone down and the fittest I’ve ever been.
Mencap has offered me my place in the London marathon for which I’m truly grateful.

Right now, people with a learning disability face inequalities in every area of life with almost 1 in 3 young people with a learning disability spending less than 1 hour outside their home on a typical Saturday. 

They face barriers finding a job, accessing activities in their local community and receiving good quality healthcare. Mencap tackles these issues head on by providing support in a way that meets individual needs and encourages greater independence. 

They give expert advice and information that empowers people and their families and campaign relentlessly for changes that brings greater equality for people with a learning disability. 

By supporting Team Mencap you will be helping us to support people with a learning disability to live the life they choose, and do the things they love.