23/09/2026
In few weeks' time, I'll be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon for the Child Growth Foundation... and I'm slightly terrified! πββοΈπ
My husband, James, has always said that the motto of our family is "Ambition outstrips ability." I've always disagreed, but in this case, he might actually be right.
When the Child Growth Foundation asked if I'd run the Royal Parks Half Marathon, my thought process was simple:
β
I can run.
β
The charity is amazing.
β
What could possibly go wrong?
Since saying yes, I've remembered a few important details:
β’ I haven't run properly in over seven years.
β’ I've had two children since then.
β’ A half marathon is 21km, not 10km. π€¦ββοΈ
So here I am, training, questioning my life choices, and counting down the days!
But there is a much bigger reason why I'm doing this.
When our daughter Eva was two years old, after numerous tests, hospital appointments and even an overnight stay at GOSH, she was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency. At the time, James and I decided not to share her diagnosis widely. We never wanted people to see limitations before they saw her.
We wanted people to see what we see every day: a confident, happy, determined little girl.
Nearly four years later, Eva continues to thrive with daily growth hormone treatment, and we've realised that her diagnosis does not define her. More importantly, we never want her to feel that it is something that needs to be hidden.
That's why I'm sharing our story today.
The Child Growth Foundation provides vital support, information and advocacy for children and families affected by growth conditions. Until Eva's diagnosis, we had never heard of the charity. Now we know just how important their work is.
So, in four weeks' time, I'll be taking on 21km to help raise awareness and support their incredible work.
π If you'd like to support me and help the Child Growth Foundation continue its vital work, please consider making a donation via my JustGiving page:
π https://www.justgiving.com/page/iona-stretton-3
Every donation, no matter the size, will help the Child Growth Foundation support more children and families affected by growth conditions.
Please also help by liking, sharing and commenting on this post to spread awareness.
Thank you for your support. π
