On 20th April 2026, I will be running the Boston Marathon—an event that represents the culmination of a personal goal of completing all six World Marathon Majors.

I started running back in 2017, encouraged by my fitness buddy and great friend Carol, my gym buddies at Andy Ward Fitness and supported by the incredible people at Murlough Athletic Club. I have already run Chicago, Berlin, London, New York, Tokyo, Dublin and Paris marathons and each one has good memories. 

Boston will be especially meaningful because I am running not just for myself but for Samaritans Belfast, an organisation I am proud to volunteer with since 2021. Through my volunteering, I have seen how powerful it can be simply to listen, to be at the other end of the phone line and to remind the caller that they are not alone during their lowest and darkest moments.

As I train for this major event, I am hoping to raise vital funds to help Samaritans Belfast continue their important life-saving work 24/7—answering calls from people across the UK and Ireland, replying to chat messages and supporting people when they need it most.

If you are able to support me please by donating or sharing this post, I would be incredibly grateful. All funds will go to Samaritans who purely rely on public donations; they do not get government funding.

Every mile I run in Boston will be for the people who reach out to Samaritans and for my fellow volunteers who are always there to listen.

Thank you for your support 💚

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Samaritans provide confidential, non-judgemental emotional support for those who are experiencing feelings of distress or who are suicidal.

The service is available to support callers 24/7 by:

Phone 116123

email jo@samaritans.org

webchat pilot through www.samaritans.org

Belfast branch started supporting people in 1961 and was the first branch to be opened in Ireland. The dedication of our wonderful volunteers helps us to ensure that no-one has to face difficult times alone