Bedford-based performer Elly Jay has been selected as one of just nine runners across the nation to represent the charity Scleroderma and Raynaud's UK (SRUK) at the prestigious 2026 London Marathon. Her participation is a deeply personal tribute, as she will be running in loving memory of her mother, Amanda Jamieson, whom she lost to the rare autoimmune disease scleroderma at the tender age of 34.
A Devastating Loss and a Powerful Tribute
Elly was only 15 years old when her mother passed away. The progression of scleroderma, a little-known but devastating condition, was tragically swift; from the first symptoms to Amanda's death, a mere eight months elapsed. Originally from Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire, Elly has channelled her grief into a powerful mission of awareness and fundraising.
"Being chosen to run the London Marathon for SRUK means more to me than I can ever fully express," Elly said. "If sharing my story helps fund research that leads to better treatments, then every mile will be worth it."
Understanding Scleroderma and Raynaud's
Scleroderma is a rare, chronic disease that affects the immune system, blood vessels, and connective tissue. As an autoimmune condition, it causes the immune system to become overactive and attack the body's own healthy tissues. It is estimated to affect up to 19,000 people in the UK, while Raynaud's phenomenon impacts around 10 million individuals. SRUK is dedicated to funding vital research, raising public awareness, and providing life-changing support to those living with these challenging conditions.
Following in Her Mother's Footsteps
Elly's motivation is profoundly connected to her mother's own passion for running. Amanda was not only Elly's rock but also an accomplished marathon runner herself. She completed races including Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Inverness, and the Great North Run, ultimately fulfilling a dream by running the London Marathon. Her London Marathon medal, bearing a finishing time of 3:24:43, holds a place of honour in Elly's living room.
"Running the same course she did will be one of the most emotional moments of my life," Elly added. "I know I'll be crying on the day – but I'll be smiling too, because I know she'll be with me every step of the way."
An Impressive Fundraising Start
Elly's fundraising campaign is already making significant strides. She recently starred as Cinderella in the Christmas pantomime at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham. By holding post-show meet-and-greet sessions with children and families, she raised an incredible £2,960 for SRUK in just a few evenings.
Elly was keen to express her gratitude to the theatre venue for their support in facilitating her fundraising efforts. "Every donation, even £5 – the price of a coffee – makes a real difference," she emphasised. "I want to help prevent another family from going through what mine did."
Charity Support and Future Hopes
Gemma Cornwell, Head of Fundraising & Engagement at SRUK, praised Elly's efforts. "We are so grateful to Elly for her inspiring fundraising achievements so far and wish her the very best of luck in her preparations for the London Marathon in April," she said. "All at SRUK extend our thanks to Elly in raising an incredible £2,960 so far. These vital funds will help us support people living with scleroderma and Raynaud's. There is so much we don't know about these debilitating conditions, which is why we want to fund more research to help us develop new treatments and, ultimately, to find a cure."
Elly Jay's journey to the 2026 London Marathon stands as a poignant testament to a daughter's love, a commitment to raising awareness for a rare disease, and a powerful drive to support crucial medical research in her mother's name.
