Dorset mum runs London Marathon to support The Salvation Army after family’s life-changing experience

Louise Admans (29), a single mother of two from Poole, Dorset, is lacing up her running shoes for the London Marathon 2025 to raise funds and awareness for The Salvation Army, a charity close to her heart. Louise’s decision to take on the 26.2-mile challenge stems from her family’s personal journey with homelessness and addiction, and the life-changing support they received from The Salvation Army.  

Louise’s mother is currently receiving help for addiction and homelessness at a Salvation Army facility, while her father has been sober for 12 years thanks to the charity’s intervention. Louise, who works in accounts for a local company that employs veterans, ex-convicts, and individuals with past addictions, knows firsthand the impact of The Salvation Army’s work. 

She aims to raise £2,000 and complete the marathon in under five hours, all while inspiring her two young children to believe that anything is possible with determination and hard work.  

Louise said: “The Salvation Army helps so many people in so many walks of life. Never judge a book by its cover; you never know when you may be in need. People often look at me and don’t realise some of the things I have experienced in life. They know very little about my life story. The Salvation Army has been a big part of my parents’ life story, in turn shaping my life story.”  

Louise’s connection to The Salvation Army runs deep. She recalls meeting her mother in difficult situations, where the charity provided crucial support during times of addiction, homelessness, and domestic abuse. 

“The Salvation Army sees everyone as equals and does not judge them due to the situations they find themselves in. Without them, my mother might not be here, and my father could still be living an unhealthy and unsafe lifestyle.”  

Her family’s experiences with homelessness have also shaped her perspective on compassion and understanding. 

“It taught me at a young age not to judge people because of the way they look or the situations they find themselves in. My children now see homeless individuals and ask to say hello, telling them that God is looking out for them, and everything will work out in the end.”  

Balancing marathon training with being a single mother to two young children has been no easy feat. Louise has been squeezing in treadmill sessions in the evenings and enjoys running with her children, who have become her biggest cheerleaders. 

Louise said: “My children tell their friends at school, ‘Mummy is running the London Marathon,’ and they even run alongside me, If they can keep up, I have no excuse!”  

Louise’s training journey has been a testament to her resilience and determination. 

“This marathon is a mental and physical challenge for me. I want to show my children that if you put your mind and time into something, anything is possible.”  

Through her marathon effort, Louise hopes to shine a light on The Salvation Army’s mission to support those facing homelessness, addiction, and other challenges. Louise is encouraging people to support her by donating, sharing her story, and spreading awareness about The Salvation Army’s vital work.  

“Even if you don’t believe in any religion, the work The Salvation Army does makes such a huge difference to so many people’s lives. Without The Salvation Army, I may not have had the life that has shaped me into the person I am today.” 

To support Louise’s marathon effort, make a donation here Louise Admans is fundraising for The Salvation Army.