Michael Maley

I’m running The Great North Run in the fight for breath!

For most people, running a half marathon is a fitness goal. For me, it’s both a challenge and a tribute.

In 2026, I’ll be taking on the Great North Run for Asthma + Lung UK - a charity that represents the lifeline I’ve depended on since childhood. Diagnosed with chronic asthma, I’ve spent over 20 years managing my condition with daily steroid inhalers and emergency medication always within reach. I’ve faced moments where breathing felt impossible, where fear took over, and where I was reminded just how fragile life can be.

This run isn’t just about appreciation - it’s also about transformation. I haven’t run in years, and even when I did, it was never my strong suit. But this feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change my health for the better. To push myself. To get stronger. And to give back to the organisation that’s helped me breathe easier for decades.

Just £24 could support a researcher at the start of their career to carry out an hour of lung health research to ensure we attract and keep the best scientific minds to focus on lung disease or £22 could go towards Asthma + Lung UK's Health Care Advisors supporting someone with the information they need to live well.

Any support would be amazing, even just £1 towards the fight for better lung health!