Our fundraisers are at the very heart of Spread a Smile, using their skills and talents to do something amazing to support seriously ill children and young people in hospital.
Carly is one of our superstar fundraisers, having supported the charity for a number of years along with her husband, Rob. We spoke to Carly about why she supports Spread a Smile and what it’s like to be part of Team Smile.
“We met spread a smile back in January 2018 when my eldest son Louis was in Great Ormand Street Hospital receiving treatment for Burkett lymphoma. They used to come in weekly with entertainers, characters and therapy dogs, not only lifting Louis’ spirits but the whole family’s as well. In a really hard time, Spread a Smile managed to make him and his younger brother smile, whilst the Spread a Smile team offered support to me and my husband.
“We feel so thankful to Spread a Smile and we have always tried to support them where we can. In 2025 I’ve taken part in 2 marathons to raise money to help spread smiles to other young people. I was lucky enough to get a ballot place for the London Marathon and then completed the Edinburgh Marathon 28 days later.
“I’d already ran the London Marathon for Spread a Smile in 2024, asking for sponsorship, so this year we organised a quiz night instead to mix things up a bit. We had a raffle and few games, and it was a really good event enjoyed by family and friends. It was a great way to raise money in a different way to the year before. We raised just over £2,100 which my husband’s company match funded, so Spread a Smile received just over £4,200 which was wonderful.
“The Spread a Smile team is absolutely amazing. They would check in to see how things were going and if there was anything they could help with, and it really makes a difference. Having seen first-hand what a difference they make to the children they support is a massive motivation.
“If you’re thinking of fundraising for Spread a Smile, definitely do it! Spread a Smile is the most amazing charity, run by the most incredibly people, who are so grateful for all the support they are given.”
Thank you Carly and Rob for all you do to support Spread a Smile. We are so grateful to you and all of our amazing fundraisers. If you’d like to find out more about our upcoming fundraising events and challenges, please click here. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Team Smile.