On April 26th, I’ll be running the London Marathon in support of Barts Charity, whose work continues to make a real difference across Barts Health — from advancing vital medical research to supporting patients, families, and staff when they need it most.

This year carries a special meaning. I’ll be running in honour of Bill Smith, former Head of International at BMO Capital Markets, who sadly passed away last year. He was a passionate advocate for Barts Charity and instrumental in driving fundraising efforts within our teams. His energy, generosity, and commitment helped bring people together for a cause that genuinely matters. By dedicating my Marathon run to him, I hope to continue the legacy he helped build.

On a personal note, this will be my second London Marathon. Running has always been part of my life — I ran to a decent standard at school, and it’s been a constant thread ever since. My first London Marathon was a huge learning experience: tough, unforgettable, and far more rewarding than I expected. I finished in 3:45, beating my 4 hour target, and I’ve spent the last two years learning from that race, training smarter, and (despite turning 50!) feeling fitter and more focused. With a bit of discipline and a lot of help from my AI assisted running app, I’m aiming to get as close as possible to a 3 hour finish this time around.

Beyond times and targets, running has become one of the most important anchors for my mental health. It gives me space to reset, clear my head, and put challenges into perspective. Even on the hectic days, getting out for a run — whether a long session or a quick loop — leaves me feeling more balanced and grounded.

I’d encourage anyone, at any level, to give running a try. You don’t need to chase marathon times; even a short jog can have a genuinely positive impact. Start slow, be patient with yourself, and you may find — as I have — that running becomes not just exercise, but a powerful tool for both physical and mental wellbeing.

If you’re able to support — whether through a donation, sharing the link, or a cheer on the day — it would mean a great deal. Every contribution helps fund projects that directly benefit our community.