Running the 2026 London Marathon in memory of my brilliant Dad, supporting the incredible Princess Alice Hospice

In April this year, we said goodbye to our wonderful dad. He lived with us for the past nine years - right in the heart of our home and our family. He helped raise our kids, shared so many laughs, and was part of the everyday chaos and love of our lives.

From my earliest schoolboy rugby days, Dad never missed a game. He’d be on the sidelines with the camcorder, filming every match with his well-known unsteady hand, especially when things got exciting. Watching the tapes back always made me laugh, because the moment a try was scored, the camera would usually tilt towards the sky as his passion and excitement took over. Those shaky videos are some of my favourite memories, proof of his unwavering support and the way he lived every moment right alongside me.

During his final months, we were supported by the most extraordinary people - the teams from Princess Alice Hospice. Whether it was the Enhanced Support Team or the Night Response Team, every single person brought care, comfort, dignity, and so often a smile to Dad’s face, even in the darkest times. They didn’t just care for him; they helped all of us; as a family - with compassion, strength, and humanity. We’ll never forget what they did.

That’s why I’m proud to be running the London Marathon in April 2026, alongside my sister, to raise money for Princess Alice. It’s a small way of giving back to a team that gave us so much.

Princess Alice Hospice do vital work supporting patients and families, whether at home or in their care. From clinical care to emotional support, bereavement services, or simply being a calm voice on the end of the phone, they make a huge difference when it matters most. We never know when we might need that kind of support, but I now know how life-changing it can be when you do.

It’s been eight years since I retired from professional rugby, and this will be the longest run of my life, in every sense. 

I’ve set an ambitious fundraising goal because this cause deserves it, and because I know how far every donation goes. If you’re able to support me and donate, it would mean the world.

Thank you to the Princess Alice team, especially Theresa, Anne, Rhiannon, Sally-Anne, Rebecca, Sharon, Dr Bazari, Dr Pearce, and every district nurse and matron who walked this journey with us. We are forever grateful.

Thank you,

Shane