2026 was Child.org’s first year bringing a team of runners to the TCS London Marathon – and the whole experience was amazing. On top of running a marathon, our 11 runners raised a phenomenal £45,408 (incl. gift aid). Karen Stephenson, Trustee at Child.org, talks to us about her experience running the London Marathon for Child.org.
Running the London Marathon
I’ve run many marathons over the years, but this was the first time I’d ever run for a charity. I honestly hadn’t expected just how much support and encouragement I’d receive from Child.org from the moment I signed up.
Fundraising & Training Support
The team were there every step of the way, sharing training plans, fundraising ideas and plenty of moral support whenever it was needed. I particularly liked the way Child.org created a group chat for all their runners. It created a real sense of being part of a team, all united behind Child.org’s mission, sharing fundraising ideas and the highs and lows of training through the winter.
Race Day
Meeting everyone in person before the marathon only strengthened that feeling, and having the Child.org team cheering us on along the route was genuinely one of the highlights of the day. Running a marathon is always a challenge, but knowing you have an incredible team behind you – and that every mile works to support mums and babies access life-saving care in Kenya – makes it even more meaningful. I couldn’t recommend Child.org more highly as a charity to run for.
Apply to run the London Marathon 2027
Inspired to run the London Marathon 2027 for Child.org? Applications are still open, and will close later in July.