Hi everyone,

This September, I’m running my first-ever half marathon – the Great North Run – in memory of my incredible brother, Steve, who we sadly lost last year aged 56.

Steve was brave, resilient, caring, and always ready to help others. He passionately supported the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) by organising fundraiser events with County Durham Metal Detectorists, which he co founded, and where he volunteered as a medic.

This amazing charity provides a life-saving helicopter emergency service, delivering rapid medical care to people in critical need across the North of England. Every day, they save lives, and their work is truly extraordinary.

Despite battling two brain tumours over seven years, Steve remained dedicated to supporting GNAAS. Whilst recovering from his second brain tumour operation in hospital, Steve wrote the following note for County Durham Metal Detecting group:

“…….what a journey, it was much more difficult than last time but the team pulled an amazing surgery feat. I am incredibly grateful; the surgeons and nurses were excellent. Second week in and the air ambulance landed above me. In all, 3 times the air ambulance landed, this shows the importance of the volunteer work we do and the funds we raise! If fuel wasn’t available they couldn’t fly, servicing is incredibly expensive, so anything we do is keeping them flying. I will hopefully be back next year doing my rounds, talking to the lovers of this great hobby. Luck in the muck…Steve”

Less than two weeks later, we sadly lost him.

At Steve’s funeral, I promised to run this half marathon for him - ‘doing the rounds’ he would have done for a cause he connected with.

The training has been tough, starting with couch to 5k in January this year, but I’m now truly finding a passion for running. Every step is driven by his memory and I’m not aiming for a fast time. I just want to finish this race for Steve.

Please donate if you can; every pound supports GNAAS and honours my amazing brother.

Thank you so much,

Louise x