On April 26th, 2026, the man, the myth, and the legend that is Paul Stems, our amazing Dad, will leave the sleepy Towy Valley behind, heading eastwards to the big smoke, to take on the two-footed challenge of challenges, the TCS 2026 London Marathon.

Luckily for Paul Stems, this will not be his first rodeo. Those who know Dad will be aware that type 2 Fun is very much his love language. A lazy Sunday for Dad typically starts at 6 am and is followed by either 50 miles on the bike or a 20km trot along the country lanes. He swears by this hangover cure.

Dad has clocked up some impressive mileage over the years on foot, on bike, in water, and on skis. His training is already very much underway as he works to get the miles back into his legs ahead of the Eryri Marathon later this year. This will be Dad’s third lap around this formidable course in the foothills of the Snowdonia Mountain range in North Wales.

*A cause close to our hearts*

Dad will run the 2026 London Marathon on behalf of The Menopause Charity.

This run is deeply personal for us as a family. Sadly, in May of this year, we lost our beautiful mother, Carys. Her journey, like many womens was profoundly impacted by the challenges and complexities of the menopause.

Mam had been bravely facing significant mental health struggles for a number of years, which ultimately became too much for her to bear.

*Why The Menopause Charity Matters*

The Menopause Charity is dedicated to providing evidence-based information and support to women, their families, and healthcare professionals. They work tirelessly to raise awareness about the physical and mental health impacts of menopause, advocate for better care, and ensure no woman feels alone or unsupported through this natural, yet often debilitating, life stage.

Their work is vital in preventing the kind of distress my mother experienced.

Every mile Dad runs will be a tribute to Mam and a step towards a future where menopause is better understood and managed.

*How You Can Help*

Please consider donating whatever you can to support Dad's incredible effort and help The Menopause Charity continue their vital work. Every pound raised will contribute to better awareness, education, and support for women going through menopause, helping to prevent the kind of suffering my mother endured. Your generosity means the world to us.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for your support. Together, we can create a lasting legacy for Mam and make a tangible difference in the lives of women everywhere.