In April I will be running the 2023 London Marathon in memory of my Dad (no doubt leaving his 03:19:25 record intact!).

I would not be half as running mad without my Dad’s encouragement and the family competitiveness he inspired. He taught us by example the meaning of true grit, determination and challenging yourself. Dad always had a bigger and better goal to achieve. He conquered numerous gruelling races including 9 marathons, 11 half-marathons, a full Iron Man, the Cheviot Goat Ultra and the Marathon des Sables. I remember this began with his first marathon: London 2001. 

In the past I have got myself to the start line of various races purely for the love of running, that adrenaline burst, and obviously the free t-shirt. This year, however, I will be asking my friends and family for donations to assist an incredible Scottish Borders NHS service: The Margaret Kerr Unit (MKU).

In August 2020 my Dad was diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma: a cancerous tumour had formed in his eye, initially detected by a flickering in his vision. Despite this, Dad continued to lace up his running trainers almost every morning (5am) and do what he loved best. 

In March 2022 we were told the cancer had metastasised to his liver and Dad began immunotherapy treatment. When this was found to be unsuccessful, “giving up” was once again not found to be part of Dad’s vocabulary. Despite his love of cakes and treats, Dad switched to a Keto diet, willing to try anything to maintain his health. 

Unfortunately, in September 2022, Dad was admitted to the Borders General Hospital where he was treated for nearly 6 weeks in the MKU palliative care ward. On 1st November 2022 Dad lost his battle with cancer - and I mean “battle”. I have never seen someone so determined to beat the impossible right until his last breath. His life ended the way he lived it - positive, resolved to win, and dignified. 

We simply cannot thank the MKU nurses, doctors and staff enough for the care and support they gave not only Dad but also our family and the hundreds of visitors Dad received - thank you to you all. MKU is only able to give a patient’s family this incredible support with the donations they receive, which is why I will be running the 2023 London Marathon in aid of The Difference: An NHS Scottish Borders charity whose funds help patients and relatives in the Margaret Kerr Unit and Macmillan Cancer Centre.