Find out why Graham ran the 2022 TCS London Marathon for Barnardo’s.

"I had been running for what seemed a very long time and had never felt the calling to run for charity in the past. However, this all changed when I lost my adoptive mum, or my ‘mum’ as I have always called her, in April 2021.

"I was lucky enough to be adopted at birth, but I know that many children are not so lucky – they find themselves, through no fault of their own, in care and requiring help from organisations like Barnardo’s to find a family of their own. Barnardo’s do so much great work helping to protect, support and nurture the most vulnerable of children, and this is why I chose to run the 2022 TCS London Marathon for them.

"It was no easy task to reach the minimum fundraising target of £2,200 but, even in current times, the generosity of others amazed me, and I ended up surpassing this, raising £3,400. I knew friends and family would support such a brilliant cause, but what surprised me was that people I had never even met wanted to give. Barnardo’s supported me every step of the way, checking in to see how my training was going along with professional sports coaches for help and advice. I also received regular words of advice and encouragement for my fundraising – all positive support and no pressure.

"Although this would be my third marathon to date, nothing could prepare me for the enormity of running the TCS London Marathon – it’s an experience like no other. When you turn the first corner you are immediately met by the crowds shouting out your name in encouragement and it was unbelievable! It was especially great to see other Barnardo’s runners along the route – we gave each other a fist bump as if we'd been lifelong friends even though we'd never met before. Although spurred on at Mile 11 by one of the Barnardo’s cheer teams, it was around Mile 24 that I was most grateful to see them for a second time. It was that last push I needed as the muscles in my legs began to tire!

"Training and running any marathon, let alone London, is no mean feat, but when you cross that Finish Line, there’s no greater feeling in the world. I am extremely proud to have been and remain part of Team Barnardo’s."

Join Team Barnardo’s in 2023 and, like Graham, experience the incredible London Marathon while raising much-needed funds to help Barnardo’s. You can help us be there for children, young people, and families, and provide them with the support they desperately need – click here to sign up now.