Sammy's Running LONDON 2026 for Spinal Research!!

I’m incredibly excited to share that I’ve been granted a spot to run the 2026 London Marathon on behalf of Spinal Research! To earn my spot, I am trying to raise $3,500! What is a charity spot? In order to run you have to raise a minimum amount of money for your charity!

Why Spinal Research? Some of you may know I’ve struggled with serious back issues over the past couple of years. The last 20 months have been painful and challenging, ER visits, passing out from pain, being unable to move my legs without literally screaming, and months of rehab.

Navigating the U.S. healthcare system brought more frustration than answers. I was told to give up two things I love most: horseback riding and running. My “solution” was joint injections to mask the pain, which felt unacceptable for someone like me in their twenties. No plan, no recovery guidance, essentially just stop doing what I love.

Through physical therapy, strength training, and time off, I’ve worked hard to get back on track. I am so happy to be back on my running journey. Every pain-free day feels like a gift, seriously!

That’s why I’m running for Spinal Research: to raise awareness for spinal injuries and to support better solutions, research, and hope for others going through similar battles. I’m beyond grateful for the people who’ve helped me along the way, and I’m so proud to take on this challenge in 2026! Yeehaw!!

Spinal Research is the UK's leading medical charity focused on the repair and restoration of the spinal cord, and they exist to beat paralysis.

Spinal Research does not receive governmental funding; all projects are funded by donations.