In a nation of animal lovers, there’s a reality most of us never see: millions of animals bred in laboratories for medical research. But every now and then, there’s a story of hope, a story like Herbie’s.

Herbie, with the small tattoo on his ear, was once destined for life in a lab. The grey hairs on his chin told a different story, one of freedom, warmth, and finally being part of a loving home. Herbie was one of the lucky ones.

Although Herbie is no longer with us, his story hasn’t ended. His legacy now lives on through calls for change, encouraging MPs to support what has become known as Herbie’s Law, a push towards replacing animals in medical research with more humane, human-relevant alternatives.

For every Herbie, there are countless others who won’t get that chance. Over 2.6 million animals are still used in British laboratories each year. And despite this, more than 90% of drugs that appear to work in animals don’t go on to succeed in human trials. It’s a reminder that there must be a better way.

Animal Free Research supports scientists developing modern, human-focused research methods that don’t rely on animal-based approaches, methods that are kinder and often more relevant to human health.

That’s why I decided to take on this run as a way to support something I truly believe in.

If you’re able to donate, you’ll help fund research that aims to improve human health while reducing the need for animals in laboratories. And that feels like a future worth running for.

Thank you so much for reading, and for any support you can give. It really does mean a lot. ❤️