In September 2026, I’ll be running the Berlin Marathon — my first ever marathon — in support of Sands.

This is more than just a race for me.

Sands is a charity that is deeply personal to my wife and I. Like many families, we’ve experienced firsthand how difficult the journey through pregnancy can be, and how important the right support is during those moments.

It’s something that affects more people than most realise, yet it’s often faced quietly and without enough support.

Sands exists to change that.

They support families through unimaginable loss, help improve bereavement care, and work tirelessly to make pregnancy safer and save babies’ lives. They ensure that no one has to go through those moments alone.

That’s why I’m running.

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Why Berlin?

Berlin is a city that has meant a lot to me over the years. I’ve visited several times since my university days, exploring its streets, architecture, and history.

This time will be different.

Instead of walking the city and admiring it, I’ll be running 26.2 miles across it — step by step, street by street — pushing myself further than I ever have before, for a cause that truly matters.

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The Challenge

This will be my first proper marathon, and one of the biggest physical and mental challenges I’ve ever taken on.

Training means running at least five times a week — early mornings before work, late evenings after family time, and pushing through the winter months when motivation is low and the finish line still feels far away.

There will be tough days. But every mile has a purpose.

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Why Your Support Matters?

I’ve set a minimum target of £1,000 to support Sands and the incredible work they do.

Every donation helps:

• Support families when they need it most

• Improve maternity safety and care

• Provide vital services and guidance

• Help save babies’ lives

Sands is the charity speaking up about pregnancy and baby loss, saving babies’ lives and supporting bereaved families. As the UK’s leading pregnancy and baby loss charity, they are creating a community of compassionate and lifesaving changemakers whose voices inspire change and turn understanding into action.

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How You Can Help?

If you’re able to donate, I would be incredibly grateful.

Your support will help Sands continue their vital work — and it will carry me through every mile of the Berlin Marathon.

When it gets tough, I’ll be thinking about why I started.

Thank you so much for your support — it truly means a lot.

Dan