Brooke Weston Academy Curriculum Support Officer, Anikó Toth, is putting her best foot forward to support the Wren Project, a new charity dedicated to providing free, ongoing, one to one listening support for people living with autoimmune diseases.

Throughout October, Anikó will be challenging herself to walk between 3km and 5km daily, accompanied by her loyal Dachshund, Steven, to help raise crucial funds for the Wren Project.

Anikó said, ‘Unfortunately, I have been affected by an autoimmune disease. In April 2024, I was diagnosed with Dermatomyositis, a disease that causes chronic muscle inflammation and weakness. I couldn’t walk, sleep, or even grab a spoon to eat with.

‘When I was discharged from the hospital after 17 long days, I started physiotherapy and I began walking a little bit every day. I worked so hard, and luckily, weeks later, I was able to walk 5km a day. I can’t be thankful enough for my family, friends, and colleagues’ support at BWA during those times and even now.

‘I don’t feel 100% well yet, but I decided to fundraise for the Wren Project because they provide help to people dealing with these diseases. They understand the huge impact a diagnosis has on mental and emotional health, and they are helping me as well, and I am so thankful for that. 

‘I have never done anything like this in my life, and I am so excited about it! Steven and I will be very grateful if you can support us in reaching our goal of £500. Steven told me that he can’t promise you these 5km every day – he said that his legs are too short for that – but he will join me as much as possible!

‘Thank you to everyone for their support so far. Any donations would be much appreciated’

If you would like to donate, please use this Just Giving link.