A marvellous mum will experience the thrills of Alton Towers in more ways than one when she takes on the Alton Towers Half Marathon in aid of the National Kidney Federation.

Sarah Lincoln will take on the 13.1-mile race on Sunday 15 November 2026 in honour of her nine-year-old son Shaemus and in memory of her mum Angela and brother Peter, who have all experienced kidney disease.

The unique route may be fun-filled, but Sarah also hopes to raise awareness of the devastating impact kidney disease can have on families.

Shaemus was born in 2017 with a rare genetic condition called Jeune syndrome, also known as thoracic dystrophy. The condition restricts the growth of Shaemus’ chest, lungs and limbs. He has relied on home oxygen since birth and has regular physiotherapy, inhalers and nebuliser treatment. He also has Caroli liver disease and stage five kidney failure.

The brave youngster underwent home-based peritoneal dialysis every night for six years. When his catheter started to fail, he spent another year on haemodialysis at Alder Hey Children's Hospital before receiving a life-saving kidney transplant from his dad, Kieran, in 2024.

Sarah, 39, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, said: “I’ve lived around kidney disease for 30 years, so I know first hand the pain and suffering it causes. I’ve had to adapt as a sibling, daughter and mother. My brother Peter had a kidney transplant at a young age and mum spent years on haemodialysis, later receiving a transplant too. Sadly, both are no longer with us.

“Shaemus is amazing. He makes us laugh and he loves being a clown. He’s given us thousands of special memories and we treasure every moment together. We were told he wouldn't live beyond two years old. Yet, here we are, and he has met all his milestones for his age, despite having spent most of his life in hospital.

“My family are my inspiration. I want to raise as much money as possible for the NKF as they have been a massive support for us. The NKF has helped me spread the word about Shaemus’ rare genetic condition and we’ve received financial support to support our constant hospital visits, which we were so grateful for.

“I’m really looking forward to the crazy route and I hope as many people as possible sponsor me.”

The NKF, based at The Point in Shireoaks, Worksop, is the UK's largest kidney patient charity, run by kidney patients for kidney patients. It provides information, support and advocates for change on behalf of people affected by kidney disease across the UK.

All the funds Sarah raises will help the charity continue delivering its free-to-call National Helpline and Information Service and peer support service, which costs £100,000 a year to operate. It has already supported more than 1,600 people this year.

Andrea Brown, Chief Executive of the National Kidney Federation, said: “Sarah and Shaemus are long-standing supporters of the NKF and their tenacity and bravery continue to inspire us. Tackling a half marathon while balancing the daily worry and stress of Shaemus' long-term health condition and home schooling is no mean feat, and we're truly grateful for Sarah's fundraising.

“Please cheer her on by sponsoring her. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference.”

The NKF has teamed up with Run for Charity to offer five exclusive places in the Alton Towers 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and children’s races. The unique route, which begins with a loop of the Dark Forest, winds around iconic rides such as the Spinball Whizzer, Nemesis Reborn and Galactica. Participants even get to meet the Teletubbies and angry pirates! Participants can stay and enjoy the theme park after the race too.

Thrill-seekers looking for unique running challenges can also take part in a 5K and 10K at Flamingo Land in Malton, Yorkshire, on 5 September 2026 and London’s Santa in the City, which runs from 8-10 December 2026.

To sponsor Sarah via Just Giving visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/sarah-lincoln-3

For more information, contact fundraiser Suzanne Rutter on 01909 544999 or [email protected].