A mother is taking on a running challenge to raise awareness of autism and mental health.
Melba Knighton, 44, from Salisbury, will complete a half-marathon and run a total of 40 kilometres during October, inspired by her own experiences and those of her children, both of whom have autism.
She said: “I’m feeling excited and very emotional.
“The journey with my daughter with mental health and autism has been horrible and exhausting.
“My son also has autism, and he struggles, so I’m doing this for them, for other people who struggle, and to let them know there’s hope, and also to thank all the services and people who have helped me in this journey.”
Ms Knighton will finish her final 5k on October 13, at Old Sarum’s Dark Revolution Brewery.
She began running on September 28, 2025 using the NHS Couch to 5K app, and joined the RevRunners group in Old Sarum on April 7, 2026.
She is raising funds for the Autism Initiatives Group, and is encouraging the public to sponsor her in support of the cause.
As part of her challenge, she will complete 21.1 kilometres—the distance of a half-marathon—by taking part in the Bournemouth Half Marathon on October 11.
She aims to raise £350 for mental health research and £125 for Autism UK through the overall 40k challenge.
In addition to the half-marathon, Ms Knighton is incorporating her regular 5k runs with the RevRunners club as part of her training and distance total for the month.
Her efforts are a tribute to the challenges she and her family have faced, and she hopes to raise awareness and funds in support of others affected by similar experiences.
The Bournemouth Half Marathon will see her running along the coast and piers, marking a milestone in her journey of resilience and support.
