Zoe’s journey continues, with her wish to speak clearly and eat safely still at the heart of it.

Over the past number of years, Zoe has made incredible progress. Through sheer determination, years of hard work, intensive feeding therapies and tongue-release surgery, she has learned to chew and eat safely — something that was once a huge challenge for her and something we once only wished for.

But Zoe’s journey continues, particularly when it comes to her oral motor function.

Anyone who knows Zoe knows just how sociable she is. She loves people, she loves the chats, and she always has plenty to say!** Unfortunately, due to significant jaw retraction and an overbite, Zoe’s speech is greatly affected, making it difficult at times for others to understand her.

Zoe already faces many challenges in her everyday life as a full-time wheelchair user. Her ability to be heard and understood should not have to be another one — especially when we know there may be a solution.**

The next step in Zoe’s journey is to travel to America to see a specialist maxillofacial surgeon and explore the possibility of jaw realignment surgery, with the hope of improving her speech, oral function and ability to eat.

And this is where our incredible friend Ed Payne comes in.

Ed has decided to take on a truly mammoth challenge — Running 32 marathons in 32 counties across Ireland in just three weeks — all to raise funds and awareness for Zoe and the incredible journey she has travelled so far.

It is an extraordinary challenge for an extraordinary reason.

Two determined souls. Two mammoth journeys. One very special goal — to give Zoe the best possible chance to be heard.

"32 in 32 for Zoe

From Chew & Chat to Speak & Smile"