"I have the most amazing son 'who rocks an extra chromosome,' Ritchie was a postnatal diagnosis and set our life in a different direction to what we had imagined. He has had many very serious illnesses in his life and has used up most of his 9 lives but is the most caring, kind lovable person who gives the best hugs that 'just melt into you'. He has a fantastic sense of humour and makes everyone smile & laugh. He currently attends East Kent Mencap 3 days a week and particularly enjoys woodwork and upcycling.
Running the London Marathon 2021 was one of the best days of my life so much so I ran it again in 2022. I then wanted to change up the distance, so I took on the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2024.
Top fundraising tip: everyone loves a quiz night and mine raised £400 with little effort. I did a two-day tombola at a local shopping centre which raised £525. I also had a collection tin in a local restaurant. I enjoyed selling unwanted items online - 1 item fetched £200! Finally, I used Mencap’s “Guess My Finisher Time” poster to get in those last-minute donations before race day. Just breakdown how to raise the money it’s not as difficult as you think!"
"The support from Team Mencap was fabulous; the telephone calls, handwritten cards and Facebook group support were truly second to none and I wouldn't run for anyone else!" - Serena
By Mencap