Mum on the run! The blindfolded fundraising challenge

My son, Courtney, was diagnosed as a baby with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and Oculocutaneous Albinism. He is visually impaired and sees the world very differently to most of us.

Every day he faces challenges, but he also amazes me with his strength, determination and love of learning. Courtney is my inspiration for everything I do – and the reason I’m lacing up my trainers to take on this challenge blindfolded, stepping (quite literally!) into his world.

This journey began with Hayley and Elsie’s Eye Army. Hayley’s daughter Elsie also lives with a visual impairment, and through Elsie’s Eye Army, Hayley has worked tirelessly to raise awareness. I am so grateful that I have found Elsie’s Eye Army and a friend like Hayley amongst other Mums/Dads/Carers who all share our own stories and the kids have get together groups. In 2026, Hayley will be running the London Marathon blindfolded with her partner guiding her as her tether. Their aim is to raise £2,500 each to help raise vital funds for VICTA, a charity that supports children and young people with visual impairments, Hayley has asked for around 31 Mums/Dads/Carers all to set up our own fundraising pages and take on this 5k Blindfolded Run/Walk together. Once we have raised our own separate donations (I’m hoping to raise £750 if not more!) on each of our pages all funds will be transferred to Hayley’s big pot and all combine to VICTA!

Thats why I’m doing this. I jumped at the chance and couldn’t say no! I’ll have my eldest son with me, Oscar, Courtney’s Brother, who will be my tether encouraging me throughout the run. Running blindfolded isn’t just about the physical challenge – it’s about raising awareness, starting conversations, and showing the world just how incredible children like Courtney and Elsie are. Every step I take is for Courtney, and for every child living with sight loss. We chose to arrange this 5K Blindfolded Run to take part in October (Blind Awareness Month) to raise as much awareness and donations as we can as a team!

The T-Shirt idea! I thought was a brilliant idea! Not only to have my QR code on to donate and my children’s name on but also to have input from other parents with children with sight loss! I wanted to cover it in the only the first names of as many visually impaired children as possible, each one written in a different colour, That way, every step I take will represent their journey, their strength, and the reason why we do what we do. This isn’t just about me — it’s about raising awareness of VI in children and showing the world just how many incredible kids are out there fighting daily challenges with courage.

If you would like to visit and follow the Through Courtneys Eyes page then please click here!

If you would like to learn more about the Elsie Eye Army page then please click here!

And to visit Sophie’s Just Giving fundraising page to donate please click here!