When Aria laced up her trainers for the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run, she wasn’t just racing — she was advocating for her twin brother Isaac and for every family living with MOGAD.
This May, something remarkable happened on the streets of Manchester. Among thousands of runners completing the Great Manchester Run, one stood out — not for her pace, but for her purpose. Aria, eight years old and a proud Youth Ambassador for The MOG Project, crossed the finish line having raised funds and awareness for MOGAD (Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease).
The reason she ran is close to home. Aria’s twin brother Isaac was diagnosed with MOGAD in 2024. The condition has caused Isaac to experience a brain injury and transverse myelitis. But to Aria, Isaac is first and foremost her best friend — someone who loves penguins, enjoys playing Roblox together, and shares the kind of unbreakable bond that only twins know.
My twin brother is loving, he is obsessed with penguins and we love playing together especially on Roblox. Advocating to me means teaching other people. It's important other people know about MOG and how it might affect people and their families.
Read about Isaac’s MOGAD diagnosis and journey shared in our Family Newsletter a few months ago.
A young athlete with a bigger mission
Aria is a passionate footballer who trains three times a week and plays weekly matches with her Under-9s team. She dreams of becoming a professional footballer one day. But alongside those sporting ambitions, she has quietly taken on another role: devoted young carer and tireless advocate for her brother.
Since Isaac’s diagnosis, Aria has committed to completing a charity fundraiser every year. Last year, she walked 5km alongside Isaac and her best friend, raising an impressive £800 for the National Autistic Society. This year, she set her sights higher — tackling a full road race and aiming to raise £1,000 for The MOG Project.
over £1,000 raised for The MOG Project
8 years old
Why she ran, in her own words
Before the race, Aria recorded a video message to explain why she was taking part. She spoke with a clarity and warmth beyond her years:
Supporting families living with MOGAD
Aria and her family have chosen for the funds she has raised to go directly to The MOG Project’s Family Program. As her mom Dannii explained, Isaac’s diagnosis changed the entire family’s life — not just his — and it felt right that the money should go towards supporting other families navigating the same journey.
Dannii and her partner have expressed immense pride in Aria’s determination — both to fundraise year after year and to grow her passion for making a difference. The MOG Project community echoes that sentiment wholeheartedly.
A message to our community
Aria, you have done something extraordinary. You ran for your brother, for your family, and for every person and family touched by MOGAD. You showed the world what it means to advocate — to teach people, to raise awareness, and to take action.
We are so grateful for you, and for the love you carry for Isaac every single step of the way.
Congratulations, Aria!
If Aria’s story has moved you and you’d like to support MOGAD research, visit mogproject.org/donate to find out how you can help.
If your child is living with MOGAD, please learn more about our Children’s Ambassador program. Or if they are sibling to someone living with MOGAD, consider applying for our Youth Champions program, like Aria!
