Running for Something That Matters
James’ London Marathon journey is in memory of his dad who passed away recently. When James lines up at the start of the 2026 London Marathon, he won’t just be thinking about the 26.2 miles ahead. It’s a very personal reason to take on such a huge challenge.
By day, James is a real estate lawyer working in the City. Outside of work, life is full on, family, responsibilities, and the usual pressures that come with it. Running wasn’t always a major part of that.
Like many people, exercise started for James during lockdown – a way to get outside, clear his head, and stay active. What began as occasional runs gradually became something more structured, especially after a serious Achilles injury forced a rethink about long-term fitness.
But the real turning point came more recently. James’ dad, who had been unwell for some time and had used a wheelchair for around ten years, sadly passed away last year. That moment reframed everything.
“I was already doing some running… and I just thought, what can I do in honour of him?”
Turning loss into something positive
For James, the decision to take on the London Marathon wasn’t about chasing a time or ticking off a bucket list. It was about creating something positive from something deeply personal.
James’ dad had always loved sport, playing, watching, analysing. It was a huge part of his life. And as his mobility changed, sport remained one of the strongest connections to the outside world.
That’s what made WheelPower feel like the right fit. “What WheelPower does… you can’t underestimate the impact that has on people’s lives.”
The reality behind the challenge
Running a marathon is never just about race day. For James, the biggest challenge hasn’t been a single run, it’s been fitting everything in.
Balancing a demanding career, family life, and a structured training plan requires discipline and consistency.
“The biggest challenge is finding the time… and just building up the distance. There have been tough moments, long runs in poor conditions, heavy legs, days where progress feels slow.
But there have also been real highs: completing difficult trail runs, building momentum, and seeing incremental progress week by week.”
Why fundraising matters
James knows there are many charities people could support. But he’s very clear about why WheelPower matters.
“Smaller charities like WheelPower… probably need the most help.
And when you look at what’s being achieved – how could you not want to support that?”
Looking ahead to the start line
Race day will be emotional. The crowds, the atmosphere, the scale of the event, but also the quieter moments of reflection along the route. For James, it’s about embracing all of it.
“It’s just the achievement of being able to do it… and enjoying the whole experience.”
A message from WheelPower
At WheelPower, we are incredibly grateful to James and to everyone supporting him. Fundraisers like James make our work possible. They enable us to continue delivering opportunities for disabled people to experience the life-changing benefits of sport. Without that support, we simply couldn’t do what we do.
