My Story

Hi, I’m Ryan (27) — a British Sign Language interpreter and (very) accidental first time marathon trainee.

In April 2026, I’ll be taking on the London Marathon — 26.2 miles of determination, snacks, and probably a lot of plasters — to raise funds for the Nystagmus Network, a small but mighty charity close to my heart.

Why This Charity?

I live with nystagmus (congenital), a rare condition that causes involuntary eye movement and affects balance, depth perception, and coordination. Think: constantly trying to focus while on a moving escalator. With blurry signs. In the rain. With one shoe on. HA!

It’s often invisible, but always present. And it comes with its own challenges — including a lot of adaptation, patience, and occasional walking into lamp posts (this is a true story!)

The Nystagmus Network supports people like me with:

• Information, advice, and a sense of community

• Support for parents, teachers, and medical professionals

• Advocacy, awareness, and ongoing research

This is my chance to give something back — wobbly vision and all.

But Wait… I Don’t Run

Let’s be clear: I’m not a runner.

I’m starting from Couch to 5K, with a pair of dodgy knees and a strong dislike of hills.

But I’m doing this my way:

• Walk/jog intervals

• Strength training to protect my joints

• Milestone events: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, then the big one

This isn’t about speed. It’s about showing that people with invisible disabilities can take up space — even if we wobble a bit along the way.

And I won’t be doing it alone.

I’ll be dragged, steered, and gently bullied round the course by my brilliant friend Victoria Midgley (pictured with the toilet roll) — a fellow BSL interpreter, and my official guide runner (read: personal sat nav, cheerleader, and occasional emotional support human).

She’s not just there to help me navigate the twists, turns, and possible collisions — she’ll be making sure I don’t veer off into a food truck or try to quit at mile 3 to find a pub.

Basically, when my eyes and legs start wobbling at the same time, she’ll be the one keeping me upright, moving, and vaguely facing forward. 

How You Can Help

If you’ve ever:

• Tripped over your own feet

• Misread a sign

• Thought 5K sounded like a lot

  …then please consider donating!

Your support will:

• Help fund resources, research, and community support for people with nystagmus

• Keep this brilliant little charity going

• Motivate me when I hit The Wall and question all my life choices at mile 19

Every pound helps. Every cheer counts. Every share is appreciated.

Thank You

Thanks for reading, for supporting, and for reminding me I’m not doing this alone. I might be wobbling toward the finish line, but I’m getting there — one (slightly clunky) step at a time.

Ryan x