If you’d told me back in 2023, when I weighed over 26 stone, that I’d one day be running the London Marathon, I’d have probably laughed in your face. And then sat back down.

At my heaviest, I was overweight, unfit and, quite frankly, lazy. Running 26.2 miles wasn’t even a distant dream. Running to the end of the road would’ve been a challenge!

Fast forward to today, and my life couldn’t look more different.

Just 10 months ago, I was still around 23 stone. Today, I’m around 14 stone, feeling healthier, fitter and happier than I ever have. It’s taken a lot of hard work, determination and some pretty big lifestyle changes, but I’ve managed to completely turn my life around.

And one of the biggest parts of that journey has been rugby.

I’ve loved rugby for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I followed Matt Hampson’s story and was involved in fundraising for his foundation through school. It’s a charity I’ve known about and admired for years, so having the opportunity to take on the London Marathon in support of the Matt Hampson Foundation feels incredibly special.

The foundation supports people who have experienced life-changing injuries through sport, helping them rebuild their lives, regain independence and find a way forward when everything has changed.

Rugby has played a massive part in helping me change my own life, through Man V Fat rugby, so being able to give something back to people whose lives have been changed by sport, in a very different way, means a huge amount to me.

For me, this marathon is about two things.

The first, and most important, is raising as much money as possible for an incredible cause. My initial target is £2,500, but I’d absolutely love to reach £5,000. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help make a difference.

The second is personal.

Crossing that finish line will mean more to me than any medal ever could.

It’ll be the moment I prove to myself just how far I’ve come. Not just the 26.2 miles through London, but the journey from being that 26-stone bloke who couldn’t imagine running a marathon, to someone who’s actually gone out and done it.

When I cross that finish line, I want to leave the 26-stone version of me behind it.

I know the training won’t be easy. I know there’ll be days when I question why on earth I signed up for this. And I’m fairly certain my legs will hate me by mile 20.

But if my journey so far has taught me anything, it’s that we’re capable of a lot more than we give ourselves credit for.

So whether you can spare £1, £5, £20 or simply share this page, I’d be incredibly grateful for your support.

From 26 stone to 26.2 miles. Let’s make every mile count. ❤️

Thank you!