Marathon runner Graham talks about his experience running in the 2022 London Marathon in support of our work for children and young people, following the passing of his adoptive mother in 2021.
“I had been running for what seemed a very long time and had never felt the calling to run for charity in the past. However, this all changed when I lost my adoptive mum, or my ‘mum’ as I have always called her, in April 2021." Graham tells us.
"I was lucky enough to be adopted at birth, but I know that many children are not so lucky; they find themselves, through no fault of their own, in care and requiring help from organisations like Barnardo’s to find them a family of their own.
Graham
Member of Team Barnardo's
"It was no easy task to reach the minimum fundraising target of £2,200, but even in current times, the generosity of others amazed me, and I ended up surpassing this, raising £3,400." Graham explains.
"I knew friends and family would support such a brilliant cause but what surprised me was that people I had never even met wanted to give. Barnardo’s supported me every step of the way, checking in to see how my training was going along with professional sports coaches for help and advice. Along with this, I had regular words of advice and encouragement for my fundraising - all positive support and no pressure.”
When you take part in a challenge event for #TeamBarnardos, you’ll receive constant support and advice from our dedicated team, including monthly fundraising tips, the opportunity to chat with other Team Barnardo’s members in our running, cycling, and trekking Facebook groups, and your very own personalised Barnardo’s running vest or cycling jersey!
“Although this would be my third marathon to date, nothing could prepare me for the enormity of running the TCS London Marathon – it’s an experience like no other. When you turn the first corner you are immediately met by the crowds shouting out your name in encouragement and it was unbelievable! It was especially great to see other Barnardo’s runners along the route; we gave each other a fist bump as if we had been lifelong friends even though we had never met. Although spurred on at mile 11 by one of the Barnardo’s cheer teams, it was around mile 24 that I was most grateful to see them for a second time. It was that last push I needed as the muscles in my legs began to tire!
"Training and running any marathon, let alone London, is no mean feat, but when you cross that finish line, there’s no greater feeling in the world.
Graham
Member of Team Barnardo's
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Other ways to fundraise
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