On 19 April 2026, I will be running the Manchester Marathon in memory of my dad, who sadly passed away on 27 April 2022.

My dad was a much-loved, funny man who is deeply missed by so many people. He had a real love for sport — running races back in the 1980s and enjoying cycling — so taking on a marathon feels like a fitting tribute to him and something I know he would have been proud of.

Although I feel like I run every race in memory of my dad, this one feels especially important. I would give anything for him to be here to see me take on this challenge, but raising money in his memory feels like a meaningful way to honour his life and keep his legacy going.

My dad was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension in December 2019, and although he faced his illness with incredible strength, he passed away just over two years later.

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious and life-limiting condition that affects the heart and lungs, making everyday activities exhausting and difficult. I am fundraising for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, a charity that provides vital support to patients and families, raises awareness of this often misunderstood condition, and funds research to improve treatments and outcomes. Their work helps ensure that no one faces this diagnosis alone.

I hope this challenge will be a positive way to remember my dad, celebrate his life, and help others living with pulmonary hypertension. Any donation, no matter how small, would mean so much to me and my family, and will go directly towards supporting this important cause.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for any support you’re able to give ❤️

“Hope the voyage is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery.”

— Ithaca