Did you know that only 1% of the population will ever complete a marathon? Next week, nine incredible individuals will join this exclusive group as they take on the London Marathon in support of National Eczema Society.
Each of our runners has a deeply personal connection to eczema. They are raising vital funds that will support us to fund future research, support patients, and improve outcomes for everyone affected by eczema. We invite you to read on to meet the team and learn about the experiences at the heart of their 26.2-mile journey.
“For as long as I can remember I have always struggled with eczema, I’ve suffered with it since I was a child and it makes me so self conscious. I am hoping that completing this milestone and raising money for a society that has helped me from a very young age will prove that anything is possible no matter how much discomfort you may be in! I want to use my platform to advocate for increased support for individual eczema patients in the healthcare system.”
“I have seen first-hand the physical and emotional toll eczema can take on the lives of those affected. Both my younger brother and older sister have lived with eczema since childhood.“
“I am running for my brother-in-law who has the condition. I am really delighted to be running for such a well-established and successful charity and contribute to the amazing work they do.“
“Eczema has shaped so much of my life, from being a baby suffering with outbreaks, through a relatively manageable childhood, to a major deterioration just before starting university.
During my darkest times, National Eczema Society’s website gave me and my family hope. It’s an honour to run for them, raising awareness and funds for a condition that is so often misunderstood, but has such a massive impact on people’s lives.“
“Eczema has had a huge impact on my life, physically and mentally: sleepless nights, cancelled plans, a huge distraction from work and school, making sports more difficult, and sheer embarrassment. I’m determined to raise awareness and some cash for the NES. The charity helps people like me with their confidence, and supports important research into new treatments.
I’m determined to raise awareness and some cash for the NES. The charity helps people like me with their confidence, and supports important research into new treatments.”
My husband and 2 kids have suffered with eczema all their lives and although I don’t suffer myself, I see the impact it has on everyday life.
I want to fundraise and raise awareness to help others like my children find a positive way to live with eczema. I want to raise funds to allow the Society to continue their fantastic work in supporting people and families living with eczema.
“I have suffered from atopic eczema from a very young age, despite being told I would likely grow out of it. From as long as I can remember, I’ve been reliant on ointment and steroids. It gives me great pride to be running for National Eczema Society – not only because my skin is actually good enough right now to run! – but because they do an amazing job in shining a spotlight on the lives of eczema sufferers, do incredible research on the condition and support sufferers. “
“I’m running to raise awareness, but also to raise money for the Eczema Society, who support people like me and fund vital research into treatments and care. Training for a marathon is a big challenge to me, but knowing I’m doing it for a cause so close to my heart makes every mile worth it. If you’re able to donate, I’d be so grateful for your support no matter what size, and it brings us one step closer to making life better for people living with eczema.“
“Experiencing the disruptive impacts of severe eczema and topical steroid withdrawal on my training as a gymnast and my overall well-being has driven me to take on the London Marathon. I am eager to raise awareness and funds for the unseen challenges people with these conditions must navigate.“
We wish all our runners good luck for the race next Sunday! We have been so inspired by their journeys. If you would like to support them – you can do so from the link below.