My Story

On 26th April, Neil and I will be running the London Marathon in support of Marie Curie and in honour of his late father, Peter. Anyone who knew Peter will tell you the same thing: he was the kindest, gentlest, and most decent man to walk this earth. He had a warmth that made people feel seen and valued, and a quiet humour that could lighten even the heaviest of days. Losing him left a space that can never fully be filled, but the love he gave continues to guide all of us who were lucky enough to know him.

Marie Curie was there for Peter and for our family during some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments. Their nurses and support teams offered dignity, compassion, and care, not just for those at the end of life, but for the families trying to make sense of everything happening around them. It is a privilege to be able to run for a charity that not only supports people through illness, but brings humanity and comfort into the darkest times.

Running 26.2 miles in Peter’s honour feels like the right way to give something back. Training has already taught us that a marathon is a test of stamina, patience, and resilience qualities that Peter carried quietly through his life. There have been early mornings, tired legs, sore knees, and moments of “Will I even be able to do this?” But every mile reminds us that this challenge is nothing compared to the challenges Marie Curie families face every single day, and nothing compared to the grace with which Peter lived his final chapter.

Marie Curie provides end-of-life care for people with any terminal illness, offering nursing support in homes and hospices, as well as bereavement counselling and guidance for families. Their work is only possible due to donations. 

Our fundraising goal is not just a number on a page. It represents real moments of comfort: a cup of tea made for a worried loved one, a hand held in the middle of the night, a family given the time and space to say goodbye properly. It represents the difference between facing the hardest days alone, and facing them with someone who cares.

If you are able to support our fundraising, we would be deeply grateful. And if you knew Peter, we hope this feels like a fitting way to honour a man who spent his life giving far more kindness than he ever asked for in return.

Thank you for reading, for supporting Marie Curie, and for helping us carry Peter’s memory across the finish line.