A mum whose young daughter was diagnosed with a rare form of genetic epilepsy after receiving specialist care at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) is set to take on the Saucony London 10k this summer to give back to the team that supported her family through their toughest days.
Zoe Christou, 30, will be joined by her husband and sister as she runs the iconic central London race on behalf of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, one of the official charity partners of the Saucony London 10k.
Zoe’s daughter, Arianna, began experiencing unexplained seizures at just 13 months old, with some periods seeing her endure up to 20 seizures a day over multiple weeks. The frightening ordeal led to the family being rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital, where Arianna received specialist treatment and care.
Since then, the family has experienced several hospital stays while doctors investigated the cause of her condition. Following extensive testing and support, Arianna was diagnosed with PCDH19-related epilepsy, a rare genetic form of epilepsy.
Despite receiving a diagnosis, the family’s journey continues, with GOSH still supporting Arianna and helping her parents navigate life with the condition.
Now, Zoe and her family are hoping to turn gratitude into action by raising money through the Saucony London 10k, one of the UK’s most popular road races, which attracts thousands of runners to a closed-road route through the heart of the capital, passing landmarks including Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus and the London Eye.
Having already raised more than £1,500, Zoe hopes the challenge will help support other families facing similarly difficult circumstances. Those wishing to support Zoe’s fundraising efforts can donate atwww.justgiving.com/page/sauconyforgosh
Zoe said: “This isn’t just a run, it’s my way of saying thank you to the incredible team at GOSH who cared for our daughter and to everyone supporting us. You’re helping give hope to families when they need it most.
“When your child is unwell, your whole world narrows to one thing: getting them the best possible care. GOSH has been there for Arianna during one of the hardest times our family has ever faced.
“This run is our way of giving something back. Every mile we run is for Arianna, and every donation will help GOSH continue their life-changing work for her and for so many other children and families who need them.”
The Saucony London 10k is one of the capital’s leading running events, welcoming thousands of participants to its flat, closed-road course through central London each year. The event has become increasingly popular, with places for the 2026 edition selling out in record time.
To fundraise in the 2027 Saucony London 10k, with entries for 2026’s edition sold out, visit: www.thelondon10k.com
