On July 5th, I will be running my very first marathon at Gold Coast Marathon in honour of our beautiful son, Oliver 💙

Oliver lives with Phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic condition where the body cannot properly break down phenylalanine, an amino acid found in many foods. When it builds up in the body, it can damage the brain and affect his development. Thanks to early diagnosis and careful management, including a strict low-protein diet, medical formula, and regular monitoring, children like Oliver can grow and thrive.

But life with PKU comes with daily challenges. Something as simple as eating out can be stressful, with most foods containing too much protein or unknown ingredients. Travel requires careful planning too, from finding accommodation with kitchen facilities, to packing enough medical formula and coordinating with specialists teams. Even a short trip takes a lot of preparation to ensure Oliver stays safe and healthy.

I’m taking on this challenge to help raise awareness and provide support for families like ours through the Metabolic Dietary Disorders Association (MDDA). Funds raised will go towards vital research, advocacy, and improving access to care for those living with PKU.

Every donation, big or small, will make a meaningful difference. It helps support families navigating PKU and contributes to a future where children like Oliver are better understood and supported.

If you’d like to support my run and Oliver, or learn more about our journey, please reach out or consider donating.

I am doing this because Oliver deserves a world that understands him and our family believes in turning love into action ❤️