I had reached the point where i was 19 stone and unable to bend over and tie my shoes without holding my breath. My heart would race walking up a flight of stairs & I was exhausted from performing the easiest tasks. I was told I was pre-diabetic and my blood pressure was dangerously high and would require permanent daily medication.

I decided enough was enough. I asked the doctor if losing weight would make a difference and was told that it could. I refused the medication and decided to take my life back, for myself and my children's future. 

I started walking daily as far and fast as I could and after a couple of months had lost enough weight and felt healthy enough to jog for small periods and so downloaded a couch to 5k app and continued. Two months later I ran my first 5k, became a lifelong fan of Parkrun, and just kept going. It had such a positive impact on my life that i introduced running and Parkrun to my whole family and now we all love it.

Now I'm 7stone lighter and love running, my blood pressure is optimal and I am no longer pre-diabetic (My transformation is reflected in the picture gallery). Running saved me and now I desperately want to use my running to help save others. My wife Abigail is joining me on this challenge as ultimately running has done so much for us all that she too wants to give something back.

After spending time as a school governor I have seen firsthand the hardships so many children face. Abuse, neglect & exploitation strain relationships and leave children suffering more than ever. Exacerbated even further In these difficult times of uncertainty due to the wider implications and effects of the current financial crisis. 

As a father of 3, I am heartbroken by the situations so many children find themselves in and I, therefore, have chosen to run my first-ever marathon for The Childrens Society and hope you will help us support them in their fight by making a donation as we battle against the TCS London marathon 2023 on their behalf.

The Childrens Society transforms the hopes and happiness of young people facing abuse, exploitation and neglect.We fight for hope by deeply understanding the needs of young people, supporting them through their most serious life challenges, and campaigning tirelessly for the big social changes that will improve the lives of those who need hope most. In the decade ahead, our focus and goal will be to overturn the damaging decline in wellbeing, ensuring this generation can have a happier, safer childhood.Thank you for all of your amazing support. Your fundraising makes a life changing difference. Mile by mile, together we can give children hope.