Carlene Macfarlane

Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2026

Running for My Dad – Edinburgh Half Marathon 2026

In May 2026, I’ll be running the Edinburgh Half Marathon in honor of my amazing Dad, who survived a stroke in July 2023. This cause is incredibly close to my heart—not only because of what he’s been through, but because of the strength he continues to show every single day.

My Dad is Scottish, so running in Edinburgh feels especially meaningful. He’s always been an active man, full of energy and mischief. There’s an old family joke that he could run the 100 metres in 11 seconds flat—and honestly, after years of playing spotlight as kids, I believe it. His speed could outrun any torchlight, and his quick feet were only matched by his quick wit.

Today, I know he’d give anything just to be able to run 100 metres again. That thought is what fuels me through training and will carry me over the finish line.

For context—the furthest I’ve ever run is 10k, and that took everything I had. A half marathon is a whole new level for me, and I’m doing it to honour his fight, his resilience, and the incredible mental strength he shows every single day.

Through this run, I want to raise awareness about stroke recovery and support the life-changing work that helps survivors and their families rebuild their lives.

If you’re able to support me, whether with a donation or simply by sharing this page, it truly means the world. Every step I take in Edinburgh will be for my Dad—and every pound raised will help others like him.

Thank you so much.

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