The Brain Charity

Running a marathon is never just about the miles — it’s about the meaning behind every step. For our fundraiser, Harry, a 29-year-old teacher from Maldon, Essex, the road to the 2026 London Marathon is one driven by family, compassion and determination.

Running with purpose

“I am a teacher and I’m heavily involved in a range of activities and clubs in my local community. I have always been a keen runner and like to set myself challenges. However, my motivation to run the London Marathon lies firmly with my desire to fundraise for The Brain Charity.”

Harry’s connection to the cause is deeply personal.

“I have family members who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and have seen how it affects them both individually as well as us as a family,” he explains.

“Shortly before I got married in August last year, my uncle, Nick, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. This has been extremely upsetting to my family and me, seeing Nick (a very active and sociable man) change and have to adapt his life to meet the needs of his Parkinson’s.”

A cause close to home

Harry’s step-grandmother, Cyndi, who has been a significant part of his life since childhood, also lives with Parkinson’s.

“My step-grandmother, Cyndi, moved from the USA to marry my grandad in the early 2000s. Her brother, Jimmy, had been diagnosed a few years earlier with Parkinson’s. Cyndi was diagnosed a few years later. Cyndi has been a grandmother to me since I was 5, and her involvement in my life has been unmatched. She experiences dyskinesia and tremors and has recently undergone Deep Brain Stimulation. We know this is not a cure, but hopefully it will improve her quality of life.”

Harry added:

“It means the world to Jimmy, Cyndi, Nick, my family and me that I am now running for The Brain Charity. The bonus experience of running the London Marathon is just the cherry on top of the cake of raising money for The Brain Charity.”

Turning passion into purpose

For Harry, this challenge is about more than fitness — it’s a tribute to those he loves and a way to make a tangible difference for others living with neurological conditions.

Through his fundraising, Harry hopes to raise vital funds to support The Brain Charity’s work, helping people across the UK affected by neurological conditions to live longer, healthier and happier lives.

Support fundraiser Harry’s journey

Harry’s story is one of empathy, determination, and hope — proof that every step, no matter how tough, can help change lives.

Donate to Harry’s fundraising page and help him reach his target for The Brain Charity.