I’m so proud of how far I’ve come
Lauren discovered WheelPower through a local sports festival and hasn’t looked back.
For Lauren, taking on the London Marathon isn’t just about crossing the finish line, it’s the culmination of quite literally a lifelong dream…
At 33, Lauren, known to friends as ‘Lil’, lives in Colchester, Essex. As a wheelchair user and single parent, everyday life brings its own challenges.
Lauren first discovered WheelPower four years ago, after being introduced through her local Rotary group. Her first experience was a Sports Festival in Colchester, where she had the chance to try various wheelchair based sports in one place, in one day.
“It was the first time I really felt empowered,” she recalls. “There’s not always a lot of support for adults, but WheelPower made me feel like I wasn’t alone. Being around people in a similar situation really meant a lot.”
That moment stayed with her. It’s also why she’s now determined to give something back.
“I want to raise money for WheelPower to help them put on as many sports events as possible, in more places and more often. People need what they offer.”
One challenge has lead to another
In 2025, Lauren completed her first half marathon. She then went on to take part in a Pier to Pier event, the experience really was a positive one.
“I realised I was actually quite quick in my wheelchair. After that, I started to think I could go further.”
Preparing for a marathon is demanding at the best of times. For Lauren, the reality has been even more complex.
“Managing my day-to-day pain has been a massive challenge,” she says. “And balancing everything as a single parent – that’s been tough too.”
Despite this, she has continued to train, often supported by those closest to her.
Her son regularly joins her on shorter training pushes, riding alongside on his scooter. Her mum has been a constant source of encouragement and practical support.
“I wouldn’t be able to do this without them. Their love and help means everything, I want to thank them so much.”
While they won’t be there in person on the day, Lauren knows she’ll still feel their support every mile. She’ll also have close friends cheering her on, something she’s hugely grateful for.
Race day and beyond
Lauren will be using a freewheel for the marathon, a decision that has boosted both her confidence and performance.
“It’s made a big difference. It helps keep my casters off the ground, and I just feel more stable.”
Her recent half marathon personal best stands at 2 hours 24 minutes, and she’s quietly set her sights on completing the London Marathon in around five hours.
But beyond the timings, it’s the experience she’s most looking forward to.
“The crowds, the atmosphere, just being part of it. And then finishing… getting my medal, the freebies, and finally getting into bed afterwards,” she laughs. “I’ll be so proud of myself for getting this far.”
That sense of pride is already there.
“I’m proud of how far I’ve come, even just getting through the training.”
Why The Marathon Matters
Lauren’s marathon isn’t just a personal milestone. It’s also a way to support an organisation that has played a meaningful role in her life.
WheelPower’s work, creating opportunities for disabled people to experience sport, build confidence, and feel part of a community is something she believes more people should have access to.
Her fundraising will help make that happen.
And for those considering supporting her, the message is simple: every contribution helps create more moments like the one that first inspired her.
Both WheelPower and Lauren would like to say a huge thanks to everyone who has supported Lauren’s journey. Good Luck Lauren!
“I want to raise money for WheelPower to help them put on as many sports events as possible, in more places and more often. People need what they offer.”
