Sunflowers Children's Action Group

Not all heroes wear capes — sometimes, they wear running shoes.

As the TCS London Marathon brought the capital to life, five incredible runners took on the challenge in support of the Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, each with their own story but united by one cause.

The charity was fortunate to secure four guaranteed places, proudly taken up by Kate Lane, Chris Lane, Gary Davies and Joanna Holbrook-Morris. Among them, Kate and Chris Lane took on the marathon as a husband-and-wife fundraising team, adding a special personal touch to an already meaningful challenge. Together, the team showed determination, resilience and true community spirit across the 26.2-mile course.

Joining them was a fifth runner, Julia Butler, who secured her place through the public ballot but chose to run for Sunflowers. Inspired by a very special little boy, Noah, she completed the marathon in an impressive 4 hours and 33 minutes while raising an incredible £2,000 for the charity.

The journey to race day has been as inspiring as the event itself. Joanna Holbrook-Morris, who went from non-runner to marathon finisher in just a year, described the experience as “one hell of an emotional rollercoaster”, a reflection of months of dedication, training in all weathers, and sheer determination.

For Gary Davies, the day was about something bigger than the miles. He said:
“This isn’t about running 26.2 miles… it’s about what we can accomplish as a community. I’m proud to be a Sunflower and part of this small team taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2026, supporting Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, a local, volunteer-run charity doing extraordinary work. This effort isn’t about pace, distance or personal achievement. It’s about local people and local businesses stepping forward, demonstrating values, empathy and responsibility when it matters most.”

Across the Sunflowers community, the feeling is one of immense pride and gratitude. Every runner’s effort, whether through a charity place or independent entry, will make a lasting difference to families supported by the organisation.

On behalf of all Sunflowers families, thank you. Today, you are our superheroes.

Plans are underway for one of the most anticipated charity events of the year, as the Sunflowers Charity Ball returns on Saturday 5th September 2026 at the stunning Forest Pines Hotel.

Promising an evening of elegance, entertainment and purpose, the black-tie event will bring the community together for a truly memorable night, all in support of Sunflowers and the vital work it delivers.

An evening to remember

Guests can expect a fabulous atmosphere from the moment they arrive, with a drinks reception followed by a beautifully prepared dinner, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to dance the night away. The evening will also feature exciting fundraising moments, giving attendees the chance to make a real difference while enjoying themselves.

"This is always such a special night," a member of the Sunflowers team said. "It's about coming together, having a fantastic time, and knowing that every ticket helps us continue supporting those who need us most. We want the room full, great energy, great people, and a real sense of community."

Join us — tickets and sponsorship

Tickets are now on sale, and demand is expected to be high. Local businesses and individuals are also being encouraged to support the event through sponsorship, donations, or by hosting a table.

With its mix of glamour, generosity and good company, the Sunflowers Ball is more than just a night out, it's a chance to be part of something meaningful.

Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

For tickets and further information, contact the Sunflowers team at hello@sunflowers.org.uk

In April, several of our families, supported by Sunflower volunteers, took part in a memorable break away at Calvert Lakes Disability Activity Centre.

The children’s smiles, laughter, and sense of joy were unmistakable. Less visible were the challenges many of them face every day, brain tumours, serious heart conditions, and recent or upcoming surgeries. For many families, daily life is shaped by hospital appointments, medication, and the constant reality of living with limitations.

Activities built around what children can do

Children took on activities they’re so often told are out of reach. Zip wires, high ropes, catamaran sailing, canoeing, bushcraft and more, with activities adapted so everyone could take part.

For some, it was the first time leaving the ground on a zip wire, building the courage to take that leap and then wanting to do it all over again. For others, it was time out on the water. Sally, mum to Olivia, shared how “we had an absolutely wonderful day sailing… it was beautiful,” while another described how their child “grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.”

Evie's story

Evie’s experience captured this perfectly. After being told she is now living with not one but two brain tumours, so many opportunities have been taken away. At home, even simple things like swimming lessons are no longer possible. But here, she took part in everything, zip lining, sailing, climbing, swinging, exploring and, as her mum, Claire shared, “she grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.” Seeing her smiling through every single adventure meant everything.

Confidence, courage and unexpected moments

There were moments high up in the trees, quieter moments learning bushcraft skills, and simple joys like toasting marshmallows, swimming, and spending time together. Again and again, children pushed past their own expectations. Reggie’s family described watching their child take part in things they “never thought possible” as “emotional and unforgettable,” as their confidence grew day by day.

Feeling included, feeling understood

For some families, the impact ran even deeper. After often feeling left out, Michelle shared that “for once, he felt like he truly belonged,” something they said they would never forget. Leonie’s mum Vicky spoke about how much the time away meant following difficult news, saying they “needed that time more than anything.”

There were also moments of pride, connection, and friendship. Families supported each other, laughed together, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Sally summed it up simply: “Thank you will never be enough.”

The impact of that kind of time is hard to put into words, but it shows in the confidence, the laughter, and the memories created.

More than a break away

This wasn’t just a break away. It was a chance for children to feel included, to build confidence, and to experience things many had been excluded from before. It was a chance for families to feel supported, understood, and not alone.

To everyone who supports us, whether you donate, fundraise, volunteer or simply share what we do, thank you. Experiences like this only happen because of you.

And this is just the beginning.

What's coming next

Next month, we will be welcoming even more families to experience something like this. More opportunities, more memories, and more moments where children are reminded of what they can do.

Because every child deserves that chance.