Lauren Taylor of Teston will be running the London Marathon for the first time next weekend (April 28). She’s not concerned about what time she can achieve, however, as long as she raises as much as possible for a charity which means a great deal to her, Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).
Lauren, 32, who works for Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust as a theatre support worker, was born with a rare liver disease. “I spent much of my childhood in and out of hospitals, mostly Kings College Hospital”, she explains. “It was no doubt much more stressful for my parents than for me because the hospital staff were so kind, and I didn’t really understand what was going on.
“I am one of the lucky ones. I am fit and happy and feel very blessed to be able to live my life freely with very few restrictions. I want to give back to CLDF who were there for my family with information and support when they really needed it. I want them to continue to raise awareness of childhood liver disease and supporting the many children and families who are affected.
“I love a challenge and do rather enjoy running which is why I am so excited to have got a place to run for CLDF in this year’s London Marathon. It’s something I have always wanted to do. I would be lying if I said the training has been easy, however, it’s definitely been a lot harder than I thought and I’ve had a few health issues which have set me back. So although I probably won’t finish in a time I had hoped for, I’ll still be really proud to complete it as part of the CLDF team and I am looking forward to the big day!”
Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation commented: “CLDF is the only UK charity dedicated to fighting all childhood liver diseases, by providing information and emotional support, funds for research and a voice for all those affected. In order to do this however, we rely on voluntary donations, so we’re delighted that Lauren has decided to do this for us. It’s a huge commitment in terms of time and training and we’re so pleased that she is fit and well enough to take part. We’ll be there cheering her on and hope she really enjoys her first London Marathon.”
You can support Lauren in her London Marathon challenge by going to gofundme.com/lozvsmarathon
For more information on CLDF visit childliverdisease.org.
