Autistica

Michael’s London Marathon Page

Fueled by Focus (and Chaos) – Michael Holroyd Runs

Fueled by Focus (and Chaos) – Michael Holroyd Runs

My Story

In April 2026, I’ll be taking on one of the biggest challenges of my life, running the London Marathon. But I’m not doing it to tick a box or chase a medal. I’m doing it for something and someone much bigger than myself.

I’m incredibly proud to be running on behalf of Autistica, the UK’s leading charity focused on autism and neurodiversity. Their mission is to create a world where every neurodivergent person, especially autistic people, can live a long, healthy, happy life. A world that doesn’t just raise awareness, but truly understands, includes, and values difference.

This cause couldn’t be closer to my heart. I’m neurodiverse, I’m autistic and I have ADHD, and I’m also a parent to two exceptional neurodivergent children. My daughter is autistic, and my son has ADHD. Every day, I see the beauty, the brilliance, and the battles that come with being different in a world that often isn’t built to understand us.

I know how much difference the right research, support, and understanding can make – not just to individuals, but to entire families. That’s why Autistica’s work matters so much. They fund ground-breaking research into mental health, communication, and employment, and they push for real-world changes that make life better, not just more “aware.”

Training for this marathon won’t be easy, especially as I’m starting from scratch, but every mile I run is fuelled by love, determination, and hope. Hope for a future where neurodivergent individuals are accepted for who they are and provided with the support they need to thrive.

So I’m lacing up my trainers, not just for me, but for my daughter, my son, and everyone whose minds work differently. I’d be so grateful for your support on this journey.

Autistica

Raising for:

Autistica
117%

Funded

  • Target
    £2,500
  • Raised so far
    £2,917
  • Number of donors
    66

My Story

In April 2026, I’ll be taking on one of the biggest challenges of my life, running the London Marathon. But I’m not doing it to tick a box or chase a medal. I’m doing it for something and someone much bigger than myself.

I’m incredibly proud to be running on behalf of Autistica, the UK’s leading charity focused on autism and neurodiversity. Their mission is to create a world where every neurodivergent person, especially autistic people, can live a long, healthy, happy life. A world that doesn’t just raise awareness, but truly understands, includes, and values difference.

This cause couldn’t be closer to my heart. I’m neurodiverse, I’m autistic and I have ADHD, and I’m also a parent to two exceptional neurodivergent children. My daughter is autistic, and my son has ADHD. Every day, I see the beauty, the brilliance, and the battles that come with being different in a world that often isn’t built to understand us.

I know how much difference the right research, support, and understanding can make – not just to individuals, but to entire families. That’s why Autistica’s work matters so much. They fund ground-breaking research into mental health, communication, and employment, and they push for real-world changes that make life better, not just more “aware.”

Training for this marathon won’t be easy, especially as I’m starting from scratch, but every mile I run is fuelled by love, determination, and hope. Hope for a future where neurodivergent individuals are accepted for who they are and provided with the support they need to thrive.

So I’m lacing up my trainers, not just for me, but for my daughter, my son, and everyone whose minds work differently. I’d be so grateful for your support on this journey.