It’s 10 years since I ran my first London Marathon. Taking on that challenge just after turning 60 — and two years after my diagnosis — felt daunting. I didn’t really know what I was taking on… but I loved it.

In fact, I loved it so much I wanted to do it all over again. Like coming off a giant slide — you forget the fear, the pain, the hard training, and just remember the thrill. Ironically, that “buzz” is dopamine — the very thing I’m lacking.

Last April, I watched the marathon on TV and all the memories came flooding back: the landmarks, the elite runners, and the incredible crowds. If you ever needed a lift, all you had to do was make eye contact — and suddenly you’d hear “GO JOE!” (even from complete strangers who’d spotted your name on your vest).

That same day, I entered the ballot for 2026… and started to wonder what might still be possible.

Running another marathon isn’t realistic for me now — but that doesn’t mean I can’t take on the distance.

So here’s the plan:

On Sunday 26th April, I’ll be cycling 42.2km

Starting at 8am, aiming to finish around 11am — just in time to watch the runners in London and celebrate with them.

How can you help?

Join me for part of the cycle (or all of it!)

Donate to support Parkinson’s charities

I’ve now been living with Parkinson’s for 12 years. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve been fortunate to have incredible medical support. New treatments, including a pump delivering medication subcutaneously, have made a real difference to my quality of life.

But the reality is — there is still no cure.

Despite being one of the fastest-growing neurological conditions in the world, Parkinson’s doesn’t get the attention or funding it deserves. Progress is happening, but far too slowly.

That’s why this matters

Please support if you can — donate, share, or join me on the ride.

Let’s get things moving