Double Marathon for Sofia

**Couch to Marathon—Twice!**

Yes, that’s me! I’ve taken on the marra challenge not once, but twice, 2 weeks apart (Manchester & Leeds) —all to raise money for my very good friends daughter, Sofia.

Sofia lives with cerebral palsy, and I’ve taken on this challenge to support her and help raise money towards a new wheelchair.

Sofia is an identical twin and was born at 30 weeks in 2017. After a difficult few weeks in NICU and suffering from Sepsis, Roger & Charlotte were finally able to take her home. As time went on they noticed a difference in the girls' movements and Sofia was diagnosed with Spastic Diplegia - a type of Cerebral Palsy.

As anyone who has ever met Sofia will tell you, Sofia is a determined, bright little girl with a smile that lights up the room. The CP affects her legs, causing spasticity which makes it very difficult to walk. With hours of physio and focus, she can now walk with Tripod Sticks.

However, it is extremely difficult for her to walk far as she becomes tired quickly. She must also walk slowly in order to concentrate. Every step for Sofia is a challenge. Despite this, she, quite rightly, wants to do everything her sister, Valentina, and older brother, Massimo, can do. It is often a struggle, but their family motto is "You can do ANYTHING”

Unfortunately, the wheelchairs offered for children on the NHS are not fit for purpose. They are bulky and too heavy for Sofia to use independently. You have to choose between either a manual or electric, despite there being clear situations when only one of these is appropriate. They have previously raised money to purchase her current two wheelchairs which cost a combined total of £10k!

Now, Sofia is growing out of these chairs. Bigger chairs mean a bigger price tag, so that’s why I’m here to help fund raise and contribute towards the expense. I am determined to help give Sofia everything she needs to reach her potential and do ANYTHING!

If you can donate even a little, they’d be incredibly grateful. In the meantime, training is in full swing—I’m hitting 23 mile mark

A huge thank you to everyone who has cheered me on —whether it’s a wave, a thumbs-up, a car beep, a shout of encouragement, biking next to me or even sharing a few miles with me along the way. Your support means the world!

Thank you!