London Marathon 2023 for Stroke Association

My inspiration is my dad. Andy McKillop (67)

He died in November 2021 with a Brainstem Stroke. It was completely out of the blue as he was a healthy and active man. It happened whilst on a train back from my graduation in London. (He lived in Scotland).

He managed to see me graduate and then the Stroke happened. I flew back to Scotland as soon as possible and managed to sit with him for many hours before he slipped away

I am a musical theatre performer who was allowed to chase my dreams and study in London all because of my Dad. He has left such an empty void in my family’s life.

Strokes are a horrible thing. When I found out about the Stroke and first went to the hospital there was a hope of him being able to hopefully recover over years. At this moment I realise the amount of help someone who has suffered a stroke will need to recover in any way. I would have done anything to help my dad recover after his stroke but I’d like to run for your charity to help those who have an opportunity to recover and to make my Dad proud. After spending the amount of time I did in the Stroke ward at Ninewells Hospital it became apparent with how many lives and families are affected by strokes.

Stroke Association provide specialist support, fund critical research and campaign to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives. Rebuilding lives after a stroke is a team effort and I’m so glad I can get to be a part of this.

I have ran a half marathon before but this is going to be such a challenge. I’m not a natural runner but I enjoy it as a hobby!

The hard work starts now!

I’ll leave you with what my Dad meant to me, in a letter I wrote to him after he has passed.

“The Family Man, The Football Fan.

A Dad, A Husband and a Son.

You made me the man I am today.

You allowed me to chase my silly dreams and turn them into reality. You are my biggest supporter and my biggest inspiration. Every time I step on stage or sing it’s going to be for you.

Alongside Football another special bond was music. You made me endless playlists which have over 600+ songs! I will cherish them forever.

I’m so thankful you got to see me graduate and we got to have a fantastic weekend as a full family of 5 for the first time in years!!

I saw him crying after my graduation and showcase! (but don’t be fooled because he cried every time I sang haha)!

My overall goal in life was to have a child in the future and take them to the football with my Dad (Atleast Once) much like he did with me. But I know he’ll be there in spirit when this happens. He would’ve been the best Grandad ever!

Always described him as one of the nicest people you could ever meet and a quieter version of me.

The world is cruel and has taken my dad so unexpectedly. Cherish those around and hold your family close.

No words I write will be worthy but I hold the memories so tight.

Love you Dad. ”