This year we will be taking on a unique and meaningful challenge – running in the Belfast Marathon while pushing our special needs brother Michael in a wheelchair. My brother suffers from cerebral palsy and encephalitis and his condition makes everyday activities a challenge, but with determination and love, we find ways to push through and create beautiful moments together. This marathon is not just about completing a race, it will create a beautiful memory for us to cherish as a family forever. I and my brother Brendan will run the marathon as a two man relay team this year hoping to push Michael across that finish line on Sunday the 4th of May 2025!.

For the marathon, I’ll be raising funds for Mencap, an incredible charity dedicated to helping children and adults with learning disabilities. I have been working for Mencap since summer 24 and can personally vouch for the amazing work they do. Mencap provides essential services and support for individuals like my brother, empowering them and their families to live fuller and more enriched lives. Their work provides vital support to many families of children with extremely complex needs. The service allows these children to experience a wide range of amazing activities while giving much needed respite for their families. This charity is extremely important for the lives of so many individuals with learning disabilities and is solely dependent on fund raising efforts.

I’m hoping to raise as much as possible to contribute to the amazing work Mencap does. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a huge difference in helping children with learning disabilities receive the support and care they need to reach their full potential. Your support means the world to me and my family as we take on this challenge together. Thank you so much for being a part of this journey and helping make a positive impact on the lives of so many!.