Running for Joy: How Supporting Our Children Fuels Our Passions

Yesterday was one of the most heartwarming days of my life. My little boy’s school hosted a fun run to raise money for the school library. A simple enough event for many, but for my son, who faces various medical challenges, participating in something like this isn’t straightforward. Despite the odds, he was determined to give it his all.

And so, with determination in his heart and encouragement all around, he started the run. But early on, he fell. The moment was heartbreaking, but it was also the start of something incredible. His Year 6 ‘buddy,’ part of a school tradition pairing younger children with older mentors, stepped in. Not only did this remarkable young man look after my son, but he also took it upon himself to run laps in his place. What followed was something I’ll never forget. The other children and parents rallied around with constant cheers of encouragement, and I ended up running (or rather, half-running) several laps with him to keep his spirits high. It wasn’t the prettiest sight, but it was more than worth it.

I was left feeling shattered but overwhelmingly proud. Not just of my son, but of the kindness and solidarity of the people around him. The experience made me reflect on how vital it is to support children, especially those with additional needs. We need to give them the confidence to tackle the world in their own way, on their own terms, and ensure that they feel supported every step of the way—just like my son did on that race track.

This experience isn’t far removed from my work. In many ways, being a virtual assistant is about providing that same kind of support. Whether it’s managing inboxes, handling customer service, or creating a business from scratch, I stand by my clients, ready to run those extra laps alongside them when things get tough.

Just as my son’s buddy stepped in to help, I work to lighten the load for my clients, making sure they have what they need to succeed, even when the path is challenging. My role allows me to be there for my family when they need me most, while also helping others grow and achieve their dreams.

So, whether you’re running a business or literally running in a fun run, don’t forget—there are always people ready to help, encourage, and support you. And if you ever need someone in your corner, cheering you on, I’m just a message away.