Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read this page or donate to the very worthwhile cause. We are grateful that my father's legacy continues to live on through his positivity and that we have been able to share part of his journey with you. Keep safe and keep well.

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I am training to run 5km (without stopping!) on 17.1.21 which will mark 15 years since my father suddenly passed away. His death left seismic waves not only in our family's lives but in every life he touched. He was truly 'one of a kind' and I am not shy to say, the best doctor I have ever had the privilege to meet - he was my inspiration.

My Dad had significant struggles with his own personal health having had a quadruple bypass at Bart's in 1987, I was 5 years old, my sister 10. I remember those long drives to London from Southend with my mum and sister, visiting Dad while he was recovering, which in itself was turbulent to say the least.

You wouldn't have known this about my Dad as he was not one to let difficulties stop him or get the better of him. Instead, challenges were his driving force and he continued to be a successful single-handed award winning GP.

For as long as I can remember, my Dad woke up at 5.30am everyday and ran 5 miles, which was followed by weight training. He did this every day, before taking me to school and then doing a full surgery of 35 patients, his day would also include home visits and at least one care home or nursing home visits too. He somehow managed to fit in picking me up from school in his 'lunch hour' before heading back to work - I have no idea how he managed this... but he did this so well and always with a smile on his face and a joke or two to tell!

My Dad and Mum mum raised money annually for local hospital charities where my Dad had the opportunity to partake in his favourite hobby.... singing. He was a wonderful and dedicated singer, again diligently practising this art daily. He made life look 'easy', because I think he had this mindset and perspective. Those who knew him never knew what he endured because he saw the the bright side of life and saw struggles as the making of us. This is a teaching I hold on to, especially in these very difficult times we are living in.

Unfortunately, my Dad was unable to tolerate 'innovative' procedures in 2005 which ultimately led to his untimely departure in January 2006, just 5 months later.

So, why am I running 5km?

5km for some is 'easy-peasy' and if my younger self could speak to me now, I'm sure I would be having some stern words about the deconditioned state I am in!

Having had several physical health set backs, I have been unable to keep on 'tip-top' form, but now, my pledge to my father, as it is coming up to the 15th anniversary of his passing, is to look after myself, just as he looked after himself so diligently. His physical activity is what kept him alive for 18 years following his bypass. If he had no excuse, then I certainly don't.

Along with my sister, we've decided to do the the couch to 5km over the next 9 weeks to align with my dad's anniversary on 17.1.21. So, on 17.1.21 we will be able to do the a full 5km without stopping. Now, this is not the 5miles he did, but that will be our next target!

If you are in a position to donate, please do, but please do not feel obliged. If you are not in a position to donate, thank you for reading this and learning about my Dad's journey. He was a true gentleman and a great GP.

Keep well and keep safe.

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