Eighteen-year-old T Level student at College of West Anglia has completed the London Marathon in support of Sense, a charity that helps people who are deaf-blind- a cause deeply personal to her and her family.

Lizzie Morris-Sampson , who is visually impaired herself, ran the marathon alongside her mum, who has completed the event twice before. ‘I entered the ballot last year on a whim and felt really disappointed when I didn’t get a place.’ Lizzie said. ‘So I applied to various charities, and when Sense offered me a spot, I was ecstatic. My mum used to work for them, and I’ve seen the difference they make.’

Despite major health setbacks during her training – including eye surgery, a broken foot and an operation for endometriosis just weeks before race day – Lizzie pushed through with determination and family support. ‘There were points we didn’t think it would happen,’ she admitted. ‘But we managed to do it.’
Her mum designed a training schedule that worked around Lizzie’s studies. ‘She planned everything around my college timetable and other commitments. I couldn’t have done it without her.’

Race day wasn’t without challenges, either. ‘I threw up three times,’ Lizzie said ‘But the crowd was incredible – the energy and support really kept me going. Seeing my sister cheering me on meant the world.’

Now, Lizzie is setting her sights on running the New York and Berlin marathons alongside her mum as part of the World Marathon Majors. ‘We’d love to do them together. We just need to work on our speed to qualify.’ Lizzie's journey into running is even more remarkable given that she previously ‘hated PE’ and ‘was never a sporty person’.

Since joining the college, Lizzie says she’s truly found her place. ‘I started A Levels at a different school and didn’t thrive there, but here I’m loving my T Level course. I’ve got a wonderful group of friends, and their support at college and of my marathon running has been fantastic.’