To celebrate turning 50, I decided it was finally time to take on a challenge I've never dared attempt before — running a full marathon around Lake Windermere in the Lake District. You might wonder, “Why now?” Honestly, it’s because for most of my adult life, this simply wasn’t possible.

From the age of 21, Ankylosing Spondylitis and Sciatica meant chronic, relentless joint pain. Back then, running even two miles felt unthinkable, never mind 26.2 miles. But thanks to a diagnosis, some truly life-changing medication, and a lot of perseverance, I’m now largely pain‑free and have rediscovered the joy of running.

Over the past few years, I have built up my distances, pushed my limits, and realised that if I'm ever going to run a marathon, this is the moment.

To help me with this challenge, I have recruited my good friend Lee Bilbrough to join me. Lee also enjoys running, cycling, and the odd Iron Man competition; he's already completed marathon distances, but has not entered a road marathon, and, with him also celebrating his 50th birthday this year, has agreed to the challenge.

Turning 50 feels like the perfect milestone — a celebration of resilience, health, and the simple fact that we can.

And because we want this challenge to mean something bigger than just the two of us, we’re using it to raise money for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice. Their work ensures that no one has to face the end of life or grief alone. Their compassion, care, and support make an enormous difference to families in our community.

We’d be incredibly grateful if you could support us in this endeavour and support Manorlands by donating whatever you can. Every contribution helps, with 100% of donations going to the hospice, and we promise to give it everything we’ve got in our tanks to complete the distance.

Big thanks

Johann and Lee

See you at the finish line