I am running the 2024 London Marathon to raise money for Asthma & Lung UK. My goal is to raise at least £2,000 for this charity. I am supporting this charity because I want to help fund research into lung conditions, including COPD, which I suffer from myself. Many people are living with lung conditions, and research into lung conditions is greatly underfunded, despite the fact that lung disease is one of the UK’s leading causes of death. 

I have suffered from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) for most of my life. I was born premature, and suffered from health problems as a child. 

COPD is a chronic lung condition that is incurable and irreversible. It causes permanent damage to the lungs. It is a progressive illness that gets worse over time. COPD most commonly affects middle aged adults, particularly those who smoke. However, even non-smokers (I am a non-smoker) can be affected by COPD. The main symptoms of COPD are wheezing, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and frequent chest infections. 

Despite my illness, I keep myself physically active and eat healthily to help me cope better. This has also helped me to control my breathing when exercising. I have previously taken part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon, the London Landmarks Half Marathon, and the Brighton Marathon. Living with a lung condition is difficult, but I want to make the most of my life, and to help others.

Your donations would be very much appreciated.

Mark