I'm Tom, living in Surbiton, England and dad to Beth and Grace.

In September 2015, Beth was born with Dravet Syndrome, a severe genetic form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, causing difficult-to-control seizures, developmental delays, and other associated conditions such as autism, ADHD, and motor and speech difficulties.

The day-to-day challenges of living with Dravet Syndrome are enormous. Beth is non-verbal, doubly incontinent and has no concept of danger. She requires constant supervision to keep her safe and has suffered 1,000+ seizures to date - many lasting in excess of one hour.

Awesome foursome

Over the last 10 years, we have been hugely grateful for the support we have received from four amazing charities: Dravet Syndrome UK , Park Lane Stables RDA , Shooting Star Children's Hospice and Yorda Adventures .

In 2026, I have decided to take on the challenge of running four marathons in just eight weeks, with the target of raising a minimum of £3,000 for each charity.

Beth is of Welsh, French, English, and Danish heritage. Quite the combo! Therefore, I will be starting with the Great Welsh Marathon in March, before tackling Paris and London in April, and finishing in Copenhagen in May.

Dravet Syndrome UK

Dravet Syndrome UK was created in 2009 by a group of parents who came together looking for support, resources and information relating to a rare, little known neurological condition called Dravet Syndrome. They now support 600+ families across the UK by providing:

You can learn more about Beth and her Dravet Syndrome story here on the DSUK website.

Park Lane Stables RDA

Being around horses enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities or learning difficulties. Whether on the autistic spectrum, visually impaired, or a full-time wheelchair user, Park Lane Stables offer activities that can help improve confidence, skills and self-esteem, set within a supportive and friendly environment.

The talented team at Park Lane Stables, Teddington understand Beth's complex needs. She enjoys horse riding every Tuesday morning in the wonderful surroundings of Bushy Park, and it is a joy to see the calming influence these incredible animals have on her.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families, across south-west London, north-west London and Surrey. They support families from diagnosis to end of life and throughout bereavement with a range of nursing, practical, emotional, and medical care.

Beth loves her fortnightly trips to the hydrotherapy pool at Shooting Star in Hampton. You can read all about how the Hospice has supported Beth here .

Yorda Adventures

A charity based in Chessington, Surrey that provides play and care for severely disabled children, the Yorda Playhouse is a unique space and safe environment where children can be themselves. Activities are tailored for the children , enabling them to get the best out of their day, have lots of fun and help them through any challenges they may face.

Beth and Grace have enjoyed many hours at Yorda, including several birthday parties! It is a welcoming, accessible space that also allows parents and carers to connect with others who 'get it'.

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As well as attempting to achieve a significant fundraising target for each charity, I am also keen to showcase the work they do to raise awareness of their expertise, services and support.

There are only so many marathon training updates anyone wants to see - I'll be promoting charity news, milestones and events, featuring Beth and us at any appropriate moment. It is important to understand how any donations are spent.

And finally, speaking of donations, clearly that is the whole point of this. The four charities' very existence and the services they are able to offer rely almost exclusively on money received from people like you. So please hit that big green button - it's really, really important to so many children such as Beth. Thanks so much.