The Brain Charity

Running a marathon is never just about the miles — it’s about the meaning behind every step. And for Pav, the road to the 2026 London Marathon is one paved with grief, resilience, and purpose. 

In 2023, Pav’s family experienced the devastating loss of Benita (Binnie) in a tragic accident. She was a bright light, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who met her. After her passing, Pav discovered something on her bucket list: a dream of running the London Marathon before turning 30. 

“Shortly after her passing, I found that on her list of things to do before she reached 30 was to complete the London Marathon… it struck me deeply as I had always thought how amazing it would be to run the LM but never put my mind to doing it.” 

For Pav, that became the spark for a personal transformation — and a mission to fulfil the dream that Binnie never had the chance to. 

From heartbreak to hope: how it all began 

Pav, 42, lives in Coventry, juggling a busy life managing grassroots football teams at Coventry Sphinx FC and Brinklow Juniors FC. But over the past year, he’s added something else to the list: completely reshaping his life. 

“Just over a year ago, I weighed over 20 stone, and taking on a marathon felt unimaginable and insane. 

“Having never run outdoors in my life, one night I went out and decided I would run a mile… I barely managed 400m that day and felt dejected, but the next day I went again and ran further, and that carried on. Within a few days, I put in my entry to run LM26.” 

It wasn’t easy. Carrying extra weight took a toll on his knees, and the idea of 26.2 miles felt a world away. But Pav wasn’t alone in his mission. 

“My knees were shot from the pain of carrying so much timber and I reached out to Adz @AlphaCamp to help me achieve this goal and the plan was put in place… I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I have taken on the challenge head-on, driven by purpose, determination, and love.” 

A year of change—powered by purpose 

Since that first run, Pav has undergone a profound physical and mental transformation. 

“In just 12 months, I’ve lost over 6 stone, reshaped my habits, rebuilt my strength — and proved to myself and everyone around me what may seem like impossible goals are reachable if you put everything towards them. If I can do it, anyone can…” 

Pav’s progress is as much about mindset as it is about mileage. He’s sharing every part of the journey — highs and lows — on his Instagram (@pavsinghdhesi), hoping it inspires others to start where they are and dream big. 

Running for Binnie—and for others affected by brain conditions 

In the wake of Binnie’s passing, Pav, his family, friends and the wider community rallied together, raising over £20,000 in her memory. This year, Pav is once again fundraising for The Brain Charity, a cause close to his heart. 

“After Binnie’s passing, everyone came together to raise over £20,000 in her name for this amazing charity. In her memory, we’re once again supporting The Brain Charity, a UK organisation dedicated to helping people affected by neurological conditions live longer, healthier and happier lives.” 

Now, Pav is aiming to raise £2,500 to support the charity’s work, which offers hope, support, and practical help to those affected by brain and neurological conditions across the UK. 

“This means so much more than just completing a distance…” 

For Pav, training for the marathon isn’t just about physical endurance. It’s about carrying a legacy, fuelling change, and showing that transformation is possible — at any stage of life. 

“I am asking for your support to raise my target of £2,500 for the Brain Charity. If you are unable to donate, please help by spreading the word or cheering me on as I train around sunny Coventry! Thank you for taking the time to read through this page and being part of this journey. This means so much more than just completing a distance… This is about keeping the dream alive. 

“With heartfelt thanks, 

Pav Dhesi.” 

Support Pav’s journey 

Pav’s story reminds us that no matter where we start, meaningful change is possible — and that behind every fundraiser is a story that truly matters. 

Donate to Pav’s fundraising page here: Pav Dhesi is fundraising for The Brain Charity. 

Follow Pav’s training journey on Instagram: @pavsinghdhesi.