Chloë Adlerstein, 32, who has thalassaemia, an inherited blood disorder, will take on the London Marathon to raise funds for the UK Thalassaemia Society.
The condition affects the body’s ability to produce normal haemoglobin, resulting in too little oxygen in the bloodstream, leaving those with the condition with severe symptoms, including extreme tiredness and shortness of breath.
Chloë had lived with beta thalassaemia all her life, but it wasn’t until 17-years-old when the condition was finally identified by a random blood test.
It was only at this time that doctors realised that throughout her whole life, Chloë had been functioning on less than half the oxygen than her peers.
Chloë said: “I am more surprised than anyone to be in this position to run the marathon, as I grew up believing I was just rubbish at sport or anything energetic.
“I dreaded school sport days, especially the cross-country run, as I knew I would struggle and most likely come last.
“It wasn’t until doctors told me that I had been living on less than half the oxygen than my peers that it all started to come together and make sense – no wonder I had suffered with fatigue and hated PE.”
Chloë, originally from Leicestershire, now lives and works full-time in London.
Over the years, she has become increasingly reliant on regular blood transfusions and since 2023, now attends the Macmillan Cancer Unit at University College London Hospital to receive two to three units of blood every two weeks.
She is an account manager for The Ann Savva Group and regularly works from her hospital bed.
When talking about those who give the blood needed for her fortnightly transfusions, Chloë said: “I am eternally grateful to all the kind souls who take time out of their busy lives to donate blood, to enable people like me to live a somewhat normal, healthy, happy life.
“Without them, I would never have been able to even consider running, let alone complete a marathon.
“I implore anyone who can, to give blood, it’s such a selfless gesture considering you will probably never meet the beneficiaries – but as one I can assure you, we truly are so grateful.
“Your blood has given me the life force and energy to do this.”
Perla Eleftheriou, Chloë’s consultant haematologist, said: “To every runner lacing up for the London Marathon this year in support of the UK Thalassaemia Society – you are not just racing through the streets, but running for hope, awareness, and a better future for those living with thalassaemia.
“Your dedication and endurance inspire us all.
“Thank you all of you for every step, every mile, and every heartbeat you dedicate to this cause.
“Special shout out to one of my very own inspirational patients Chloë. Go for it my girl.”
Phod Wilson, UK Thalassaemia Society, added: “On behalf of the United Kingdom Thalassaemia Society (UKTS), may we say how incredibly proud we are of Chloë who is running the TCS London Marathon 2025 and has chosen to fundraise for the UKTS and awareness of Thalassaemia.
“Chloë’s determination and appetite for life is an inspiration to us all and we couldn’t be happier to be part of her journey as she embarks on a truly incredible challenge.
“Well done Chloë and we all wish you the very best of luck.”
Dee Thiruchelvam, chief nursing officer for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “It is incredible to see Chloë being able to take part in such a physically challenging event as the London Marathon – especially knowing that this simply wouldn’t be possible without the amazing blood donors who ensure that the blood is there when patients like Chloë need it.
“Across the country, and particularly in London, we have a growing number of patients like Chloë who rely on regular transfusions for conditions like thalassaemia and sickle cell and we urgently need more donors to come forward and help us meet the needs of these patients.
“Please book an appointment today to help us save and improve even more lives.”
