A determined runner from Leicester has raised thousands of pounds to help disabled people gain more independence through technology. Tori Kinniburgh and her best friend Tia raised more than £4,500 for the charity Leonard Cheshire after completing the London Marathon.
The pair took on the famous course to support the charity’s Assistive Technology programme, which provides digital tools for disabled adults. Tori works for the organisation and sees firsthand how specialised equipment can improve care and communication for those in supported living. The funds are crucial because local authority funding often does not cover the costs of this advanced equipment.
Tori said: "I see every day how the right technology can change lives. Assistive Technology gives people more choice, more independence and more control, and that’s what pushed me to take on something I’d never done before."
The race proved to be a significant challenge as the London streets trapped the heat during the event. Tia said: "I got to 10K and thought, ‘how is it only 10K?’ And the heat was something else. London just trapped it."
Supporters helped the pair keep going by offering fresh oranges and even water showers from firefighter hoses. Tori also received a special motivation from her grandfather, who promised an extra £100 if she finished in under six hours. Although she finished just over the six-hour mark, her grandfather was so proud that he donated the extra money anyway.
Tori said: "I finished just over six hours, but my granddad still paid up anyway. If you accept Strava, I was under 6 hours."
The money raised by the duo contributed to a grand total of £110,000 raised by all 55 Leonard Cheshire runners this year. Aime Ryan-Farren of the charity said: "From everyone at Leonard Cheshire, thank you to everyone who ran for us for their remarkable effort in support of disabled people and the Assistive Technology programme."
