Story
This year I'm running the London Marathon inspired by, and in memory of, 2 very special people.
In December 2021 a very dear friend from Scouting, Stuart Collier (or Smiler to his friends) passed away from oesophageal cancer, leaving behind a young family and a legacy of fun, enthusiasm for life, and as a marathon runner himself, the inspiration for me to take on this challenge.
I was fortunate enough to meet Smiler when I joined Ormskirk Scout network and have been lucky enough to call him a friend since. I have secured a charity place to fundraise for The Scout Association, an organisation that Smiler was a lifelong member of and strives to give young people fun, challenge and adventure, as well as skills for life.
It is through my own membership of Scouts in Ormskirk District
that I met my husband Leigh in 2007. Together, and with our son Edward when he joined our family (a few months earlier than planned!) in 2015 we enjoyed many years of helping run cub camps, events with 9th Ormskirk and District events such as Moonlight. Leigh adored sharing his love of cycling, the outdoors and Scouting with his little adventure buddy Edward, of whom he was so proud.
Sadly and very suddenly, Leigh passed away in his sleep in April
2022 aged 43. As a family we are heartbroken but determined that Leigh's passion for life, fun and friendship is shared and made as accessible to all young people who would benefit from it.
We are grateful for all the support and friendships Scouting has offered us during the challenging times in our lives, and running The London Marathon to enable others to experience the adventures
we have had together, seems a fitting tribute to both Leigh, and Smiler.