London Marathon first for mum inspired by daughter

A young mother, inspired by the struggles of her daughter, is set to journey to the capital for the world’s most famous street race.

Taila Taylor will take on the London Marathon for the first time tomorrow, when she runs for the National Autistic Society.

The charity has a close connection to Ms Taylor as her three-year-old daughter, Paisley, is being assessed for autism – a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviour, speech and non-verbal communication

“She was 14 months old, when I noticed she was getting over stimulated and was not talking as she should be,” said the 30-year-old.

“Trying to get a diagnosis is such a long-winded process. With a few of my friends also having children with additional needs, I can see how demand is growing.

“There needs to be more awareness, understanding and funding to help more families like mine.”

Ms Taylor, who has worked in local government for the last decade, is the third generation of her family to be appointed mayor of Attleborough – and the youngest on record.

Born and bred in the town, she said that training for her first marathon had been difficult, but she would be employing a strategy of mind over matter to crack the 26.2-mile course.

“Before I had Paisley, I did not realise the deficit of support when it came to getting an assessment in Attleborough, which is such a growing town,” she said.

“By taking on the marathon, I hope I can spread a little more awareness about autism and, hopefully, help others by speeding up the diagnosis process.”

Ms Taylor, who raised £1,080 for the cause at her civic reception at the start of the month, is exploring setting up weekly SEND support sessions in the town.

“I feel so passionately about helping to support people with additional needs,” she said. “I want to thank everyone who has donated and supported me so far.”

To donate, go to bit.ly/4jqWwmK.

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