Why on earth would a 17 stone 34 year old man with little to no running experience sign up to run a marathon? 2 reasons...

The first and most important is my Mom. Sadly I lost my Mom 2 Years 9 months ago after a cruel battle against Cancer. As a family we are indebted to Compton Hospice for giving us a final week of comfort, smiles and memories with Mom that will be forever treasured. The opportunity to take on a challenge that can help this incredible organisation allow other families to handle losing a loved one is one I simply have to do. The ability to run in my Moms honour alongside my brother in law would make her so proud.

The second reason is the inspiration I gained from watching my fiancée complete the same challenge in memory of her Mom last year. The marathon was an event full of love, determination, mental strength and camaraderie which brought all of my Moms strongest qualities to my mind. My Mom was the most loving, caring and thoughtful person I could have wished to have guide me through life. The strength she showed to battle cancer will get me through the 26.2 miles that lie ahead. I felt blessed to be part of something as a spectator in 2018; the inspiration gained by watching people of all ages, races, genders and backgrounds competing supported with so much enthusiasm from complete strangers was amazing. My Mom would have been on the sidelines supporting every single person run past, I will do my best in 2019 as a runner knowing she would be cheering every step! 

Compton provides free care to those suffering from incurable illnesses and offers support to their families with the aim of making each day in their care extraordinary. With only a third of their annual running costs (nearly £8 million!!) coming from Government funding I want to do my bit to support Compton Care and promote the undeniably excellent work they do.

So with that I mind, I would be extremely grateful for any donations you are able to make and for your support as I lug myself around the London Marathon 2019.

Here goes.....