Alex is running the London Marathon

Hello everyone

In April 2024, I will be running the London Marathon. At first I was not going to fundraise, but recent events have alerted me to the great work that my chosen charities do.

I am running the marathon in memory of Robert Murphy who passed away on 12th November 2023 aged 35 and Junior Omezi who passed away on 3 November 2019 aged 30. Both passed away from sudden and unexpected cardiac arrests. Both were great men who positively impacted everyone around them.

In the words of Rob's family: 'Rob taught us all how to live the best life. He was so full of love which, luckily for us, never went unsaid.

Rob's quick wit brought laughter wherever he went, his kindness and wisdom supported us through hard times and his appreciation for the little things helped us recognise them too. Rob made you want to see the world through his eyes.

It comforts us to know that Rob delighted in life, whether it was taking pride in his day's work, enjoying the great outdoors or having fun with his loved ones - he did it in his own unique way.

While Rob is on to light up another world, we'll continue on his legacy of living life to the fullest.'

In the words of Annabelle, Junior's partner: 'Junior was known by everyone around him for grabbing life by the horns, and embracing anything and everything that would come his way. He was fearless and tenacious, and lit up any room that he would walk into.

In one of the last moments of his life, Junior raced side-by-side with Alex, and I have no doubt that he’ll be right beside him, proud, on the 24th April.'

I am raising money, to be split 50/50, for:

Cardiac Risk in the Young.

The charity's aim is to prevent young sudden cardiac deaths through awareness, screening and research, and supporting affected families. CRY offers free screening to those aged 35 and under to detect any heart related abnormalities and also offer dedicated bereavement support to support families after the tragedy of a young sudden cardiac death of a person aged 35 or under.

The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

The founders of the Trust suffered the loss of their son in a foreign country and used that experience to setup the trust which has repatriated 1600+ people to their families. The logistical and financial help provided to families is unimaginable at a time of immense grief. The Trust repatriated Robert from his home in Sydney back to his family in Ireland and could not have done a better job at such a tragic time.

If you can spare any cash, please do donate to these small yet extremely effective charities. If you have any questions on the charities please do let me know.

In terms of the marathon training, I am taking it very seriously. I have clocked around 400km in training runs so far, with the big long runs coming up (19miles this weekend and 21 miles the next!). I've raced 10km and a half marathon and got PBs in both, with the aim of the marathon to be under the 4 hour mark.