Emily Greene

I’m running the London Marathon 2025 to fight for lung health!

Who am I doing this for...

My mum was diagnosed with COPD 10 years ago, this year, she was on Stage 4 which is final stage of the disease. She could only survive by using a Non Invasive Ventilator every day for up to 14 hours along with a permanent oxygen machine which is installed in her home. 

Mum was always in hospital, infections were so common and every admission we were told it would be her last.

Anyone that knew mum will know she was a fighter. In March 2024, she was given weeks to live however, she had beaten the odds was sent home instead of a hospice. Being home in her own comforts meant she could spend quality time with her family, friends and neighbours. We made sure she had an amazing 'last birthday' in April, we took photos and I made sure to either visit or call her every single day.

Mum sadly lost her battled on 4th October which broke our hearts and I'm gutted she will never see me run this for her. She was so excited for me, and we had made a plan that I would call her every 5 miles to give her an update.

I'm doing this because of mum, her strength has inspired me to challenge my body and prove that if we put our mind to something we can achieve it. Staying active and healthy is so important for long terms health and I’m absolutely determined to keep myself as healthy as possible.

Not many people know or understand what COPD is. It is a preventative disease but once you have it there is no cure. Having COPD means regular infections, multiple times spent in hospital and will eventually mean you become more and more reliant on other people for day to day living and support.

Every minute, someone in the UK is diagnosed with a lung condition. I want to make a difference. I'm running the London Marathon 2025 for Asthma + Lung UK, the only UK charity that fights for everyone’s right to breathe. Every pound I'm able to raise will take us a step closer to a world where everyone has healthy lungs.

Just £22 allows one of Asthma + Lung UK's nurses to answer a call on the Helpline, offering potentially lifesaving advice. I'd be very grateful for any donations you could make!