I’m running the London Marathon 2026 to fight for lung health!

Why I’m Running the 2026 London Marathon for Asthma + Lung UK

In April 2026, I’ll be standing on the start line of the London Marathon — equal parts excited, nervous, and incredibly proud. Running 26.2 miles through the heart of London has always been a dream of mine, but this year it means so much more than ticking something off a bucket list. I’m running for Asthma + Lung UK, a charity that works tirelessly to support the millions of people across the UK living with lung conditions.

Why the London Marathon?

The London Marathon is iconic. From the buzz of the crowds in Greenwich, to crossing Tower Bridge, to the final stretch along The Mall — it’s an event that brings together people from all walks of life for one incredible day. For me, it represents challenge, resilience, and community. It’s a test of both physical and mental strength, and a reminder of what the human body can achieve when we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones.

But while running is a choice for me, breathing is not a choice for everyone.

Why Asthma + Lung UK?

Asthma + Lung UK supports people affected by lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer. These conditions can make everyday tasks — walking upstairs, sleeping, even talking — feel like a marathon in themselves.

[Lung conditions affect millions of people across the UK], and yet they don’t always get the attention or funding they deserve. Asthma + Lung UK provides vital research, advocacy, and support services, helping people live longer, healthier lives. Their work saves lives — and that’s a cause worth running for.

My Personal Reason

I’m running the 2026 London Marathon in memory of my late uncle, who ran this very marathon back in 1999. He was someone who constantly inspired me to push myself, to say yes to challenges, and to step outside of my comfort zone — even when it felt daunting.

Losing him was a stark reminder that life can change in an instant, and that we don’t always know how much time we have. That belief has stayed with me, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I want to take on this challenge now. Running the London Marathon feels like a meaningful way to honour his memory and the mindset he lived by: make the most of every opportunity while you can.

This run is also deeply personal because of my dad. He was diagnosed with asthma in his early 50s, something that came as a shock to all of us. Since then, we’ve had a few frightening hospital visits — moments that really brought home how serious and unpredictable asthma can be.

Seeing my dad struggle to breathe at times, and witnessing how quickly things can escalate, has made me appreciate just how vital lung health is. It’s something many people take for granted until it suddenly affects someone they love.

Running for Asthma + Lung UK allows me to combine these two reasons — honouring my uncle’s legacy and supporting people like my dad — into one challenge that truly matters to me.

How You Can Help

By supporting my London Marathon journey, you’ll be helping Asthma + Lung UK continue their life-changing work. Every donation, no matter the size, helps fund research, support services, and campaigns that give people with lung conditions a voice.

If you’re able to donate, share my story, or cheer me on along the way — thank you. Your support means more than you know.

Together, we can help ensure that everyone has the chance to breathe easier.

Thank you for being part of my journey to the 2026 London Marathon.