Running for Tyler
A Mother’s Marathon of Love and Determination
We are just three months away from one of our favourite days of the year, the TSC London Marathon 2026! We have an incredible team of 450 runners, all working hard to train for the big day and fundraise for Whizz Kidz.
One of our runners joining the start line for Team Whizz Kidz is Lesley. When the starting gun fires at the 2026 London Marathon, she will be carrying far more than her race number. Lesley will be running for her son, Tyler — and for every young person waiting for the wheelchair that will give them independence.
For this mother of two, the decision to run for Whizz Kidz was deeply personal.
“I’ve always wanted to run the London Marathon,” she says, “but most of all, I’m doing it for my son. When Tyler was six weeks old, he was shaken violently by his father. It left him needing 24-hour care and living with complex medical needs. Everything since then has been a fight — for support, for equipment, for quality of life.”
When Tyler needed a wheelchair, she didn’t know where to turn.
“I didn’t know what to do or where to go,” she remembers. “But Whizz Kidz were amazing. They helped me every step of the way. Thanks to them, Tyler has the freedom to get out and about safely and comfortably. That’s why I knew, without question, that I’d run for this charity. They’ve changed our lives.”
Balancing Miles, Motherhood and Motivation
Training for a marathon is tough for anyone — but balancing it with a full-time job, motherhood, and 24-hour care for a child takes extraordinary commitment.
“Some days, I doubt myself,” she admits. “It’s hard to find the time. But when I look at Tyler, I remember exactly why I’m doing this. He gives me strength.”
A lifelong runner, she’s out training three to four times a week, fitting runs around family life. This will be her first London Marathon, and her goal is simple: to finish and make her children proud.
Crossing that finish line will mean the world. I’ll probably cry! The first thing I’ll do is call my children to tell them I’ve done it. Knowing I’ve helped other children like Tyler — that makes every mile worth it.
Community Spirit and Fundraising Drive
Her determination has inspired others to get involved. With support from two local primary schools and a rugby club, she’s rallying her community to fundraise for Whizz Kidz.
“We’ve got big plans for Christmas events and school fundraisers,” she says. “Everyone’s been amazing. My partner, Scott, has been by my side through it all. I just keep sharing my story, because every pound raised helps a child gain independence.”
Her fundraising message is simple — and powerful:
“Children shouldn’t have to wait for the equipment they need. They deserve the world.”
What It's All About
For her, Whizz Kidz represents hope — not just for Tyler, but for thousands of young wheelchair users across the UK.
When I look at my son, I see how much difference the right wheelchair makes.
It means freedom, confidence and joy. That’s what Whizz Kidz gives to children — and to families like mine.
Her running mantra keeps her focused on every mile:
“Keep going — because you’re running for these fantastic children.”
When asked what she hopes the children waiting for wheelchairs will feel when they see her running, she pauses.
“I want them to know they deserve the world,” she says softly. “Never give up. You’re all amazing — keep being the fantastic children you are.”
And for anyone thinking about taking on a big challenge for charity, her message is simple:
“Do it from the heart. When you know why you’re doing it, you’ll find the strength to keep going.”
Her race-day mantra says it all:
“Keep going — because you’re running for these fantastic children.”
As for what’s waiting at the finish line?
“A cheeseburger and a gin!” she laughs. “But mostly, that feeling of knowing I’ve made a difference.”
Three Words for Marathon Day:
Hard. Exciting. Nervous.