I'm taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2027 with #TeamStroke
London Marathon 2027: Running for Dad
In 2027, I will be taking on the challenge of the London Marathon as part of the incredible Stroke Association team.
This comes after proudly representing the Stroke Association at the Brighton Marathon this year, where I achieved my goal of running a sub-4-hour marathon. Crossing that finish line was a huge personal achievement, but it was also about something much bigger than the time on the clock.
Now, my focus turns to London.
My target for 2027 is 3 hours and 45 minutes, and the training has already begun. Every early morning run, every hill session, and every mile logged has a purpose behind it.
I am running in memory of my dad.
Several years ago, while he was on holiday with my mum in France, my dad suffered two devastating strokes. At the time, I was serving in the Army and was urgently flown out to be with my mum and dad during what became one of the most difficult periods of our lives.
Dad was eventually transferred back to the UK, but the effects of the strokes were severe. He was paralysed from the neck down and unable to speak. Communication became incredibly difficult.
Using a communication board, Dad would spell out words with nothing more than his eyes. His determination and courage shone through. It was both heartbreaking and inspiring to witness.
Sadly, despite his brave battle, Dad passed away.
His loss left a huge hole in my life and in the lives of everyone who knew him.
To me, he was much more than a father. He was a friend, a role model, and a man of incredible strength and discipline. A black belt in Kyokushin Karate, he approached life with resilience, commitment and humility. Those are qualities I try to carry with me every day, particularly during marathon training when things get tough.
Every mile I run is dedicated to him.
I am also running for the thousands of families whose lives are changed forever by stroke. Stroke can happen to anyone, at any time, and its effects can be devastating. The support provided by the Stroke Association helps stroke survivors and their families navigate some of the toughest challenges they will ever face.
By supporting my London Marathon journey, you are helping to fund vital support services, research, and resources that make a real difference to people affected by stroke.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting this cause that means so much to me and my family.
As I work towards London Marathon 2027 and that ambitious 3:45 finish time, I'll be carrying my dad's memory with me every step of the way.
For Dad. Always.
Thank you for your support.
James
My Achievements
Fundraising page set up
Added a profile pic
Made a donation
Shared your page
Hit first milestone
Hit second milestone
Reached 50% of target
Hit final milestone
Reached fundraising target
My updates
Week 2
Sunday 18th OctAnother strong week of London Marathon training completed, building the aerobic base with 50km+ of running per week. The miles are adding up, but so is the motivation!
I'm proud to be raising money for the Stroke Association, and any sponsorship would be hugely appreciated. Every donation helps support stroke survivors and their families.
🏃♂️💙 Thank you for all the support so far!
#LondonMarathon #StrokeAssociation #MarathonTraining #Fundraising #RoadToLondonMarathon
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