Harriet Chester

I’m running the London Marathon 2026 to fight for lung health!

Over the past year, my family went through one of the most frightening experiences imaginable. My four year old daughter, Maria, was rushed to the hospital multiple times with severe wheezing episodes each one a terrifying reminder of how vulnerable young lungs can be. Watching her struggle to breathe, hooked up to monitors, while doctors and nurses worked quickly around her, was nothing short of heartbreaking.

Maria was eventually placed on daily inhalers, and while they helped, they became part of our everyday life  a reality we never expected to face. No parent should have to watch their child fight for every breath. It was an emotional journey that opened my eyes to the challenges faced by so many living with asthma and other lung conditions.

That’s why I wanted to run this marathon to raise funds and awareness for asthma and lung health. The work done by charities in this field is vital, not just for treatment and support but also for life-changing research. I ran with hope: hope for better treatments, greater understanding, and a future where no child has to struggle like Maria did.

Just £22 allows one of Asthma + Lung UK's nurses to answer a call on the Helpline and offer potentially lifesaving advice. I'd be very grateful for any donations you could make!