Miles with Meaning: Why I’m Running the London Marathon for the Brain & Spine Foundation

Every runner has a “why.” For some, it’s chasing a PR. For others, it’s the joy of the long run. For me, the London Marathon 2026 is about honoring my daughter and remembering my mom Linda and Aunt Kathy. It’s about turning miles into meaning.  

The Runner’s Journey

Training for a marathon is never just about the workouts. It’s about resilience, discipline, and finding strength when the miles get hard. Runners know the grind: early mornings, long runs in the rain, the mental battles at mile 20.  

But when I lace up, I’m not just running for myself. I’m running for families impacted by brain and spine conditions. Families who face challenges far greater than hitting the wall.  

Why the Brain & Spine Foundation

The Brain & Spine Foundation provides vital support for people living with neurological conditions. In the UK, 11 million people live with a neurological condition, and 1 in 6 of us will face one in our lifetime. These conditions are responsible for 1 in 5 deaths and cause around 140,000 deaths annually.

Behind every statistic is a story. My family’s story is one of love, loss, and resilience. Running for this cause is my way of honoring that story and helping others write theirs with hope.  

Giving Tuesday: A Runner’s Kickoff

Giving Tuesday is like the starting line of a global race for generosity. Last year, donors in the U.S. gave $3.6 billion in just 24 hours, and giving in 2025 is projected to surpass $4 billion.  

For me, it’s the perfect moment to launch my fundraising campaign. Just as runners know the importance of starting strong, Giving Tuesday is the chance to set the pace for the months ahead.  

Join the Run

Here’s how you can be part of this journey:

• Donate: Every pound or dollar fuels the mission.  

• Share: Spread the word like you’d cheer at mile 25.  

• Support: Follow my training and race day story.  

👉 http://gritsinthe.city/london

Final Thoughts

Runners understand that every mile matters. This marathon is 26.2 miles, but the impact goes far beyond the finish line. On Giving Tuesday, I invite you to join me in running for something bigger—supporting the Brain & Spine Foundation and turning miles into meaning.