More Than a Marathon: Motivations Behind Running for Martin House

With the roar of the London Marathon just two weeks away, a team of remarkable individuals are lacing up their trainers with more than just a personal best in mind. They are running for charity, transforming every stride into vital support for families facing the unimaginable. Get to know the inspiration behind our marathon runners, each with a unique reason for making every one of those 26.2 miles truly matter.

Liam’s Legacy: Running in Remembrance of Darcey

For Liam, the London Marathon on Sunday 27th April will be a deeply personal journey, marking 10 years since his daughter Darcey died at Martin House in 2015. Working at The Duchy Hospital in Harrogate, Liam championed Martin House to become their Charity of the Year, a testament to the profound impact the hospice had on his family.

“It will be 10 years since Darcey’s passing; 10 years since our experience of living at Martin House for nearly 2 months; and 10 years since feeling extremely supported during the worst time of our lives.

Martin House accepted us with open arms and with their care, compassion and expertise they allowed us to enjoy our last months, weeks, days and minutes with our daughter.

So given the opportunity to run the London Marathon and represent Martin House, I jumped at the chance.”

Rachel’s Full Circle: From Martin House Family to Marathon Fundraiser

Rachel’s connection with Martin house is unique, having received care and support as a Martin House family, and later working as a care team member during her nursing career. Rachel’s first connection with us was 30 years ago when we provided support to her older sister Jade. Jade had Leukodystrophy and Cerebral Palsy, and the family would come to Martin house for planned stays and symptom control. Jade died in 2003 aged 18 years old.

“I have the best memories of the time I spent with Jade at Martin House, from the art and music rooms she enjoyed so much, the beautiful garden, the family feel and most importantly Robin’s famous cooking and baking.

Jade was the reason I became a nurse, and when the opportunity arose, I applied to work at Martin House. I know first-hand how these vital funds benefit children, young people and their families at Martin House and I’ll forever be grateful for the positive memories we all share as a family.

Jade would have turned 40 this year. I have never run a marathon before but I wanted to do something that would make Jade proud and what better way than running over 40k for her 40th birthday!”

Ellie’s Frontline Perspective: Giving Back to Care Services in Yorkshire

Ellie see’s first-hand the impact Martin House has on families of Yorkshire. She has worked as a children’s nurse for 11 years with much of her time on the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at LGI. The London Marathon is an opportunity for Ellie to give back to a charity that has local ties to her.

“Throughout my time on PICU, I worked collaboratively with the amazing staff at Martin House. They were an invaluable support, not only for the patients and families, but also for the staff on the unit.

Last year I started working for Embrace Transport Service and have since transported many children and their families to Martin House during end of life and palliative care. Everything about the care provided by Martin House is wonderful.

Working for a charity funded service in a similar field, I know how important fundraisers are and I would love to contribute to that.”

Could you make an impact?

Feeling inspired by Liam, Rachel, and Ellie’s incredible commitment running for charity? You can make a difference today by supporting their London Marathon journey here. Every donation, big or small, will help us continue to provide vital care and support to children and families across Yorkshire. And if you’re feeling inspired for your own challenge, register your interest for the London Marathon 2026 here.