TCS London Marathon runners raise over £100,000
The 2023 TCS London Marathon took place on Sunday 23 April. Despite some wet weather, thousands of people cheered on those taking part and spirits were high as 50,000 people crossed the finish line.
Runners set off from Greenwich on Sunday morning after months of training through the gruelling winter, each with their own reasons for taking part in this iconic event. We were delighted to have 32 dedicated runners joining #teambrainandspine who had fundraised to support people affected by neurological conditions.
Our first finisher, Mark Hazell, completed the course in 3 hours 6 minutes making him one of the fastest Brain & Spine Foundation runners to date. During the pandemic, Mark’s wife suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) and was rushed to hospital for treatment. After a full recovery and having received support and information about this rare, life-threatening condition from the Brain & Spine Foundation Helpline, Mark decided to take on the 26.2 mile challenge and raise funds to support other survivors and their families. So far, he has raised £2,211 which will generously be matched funded by his workplace.
Another incredible runner, Josephine Griffiths, took part in memory of her boyfriend Liam, who tragically passed away from significant brain injuries just three weeks ahead of the event. Liam was a dedicated Crystal Palace FC supporter and Josephine ran the 26.2 mile course wearing his football shirt. Alongside her close friend, Monique, who was also fundraising in memory of Liam, the pair crossed the finish line in 4 hours 26 minutes beating their 4 hour 30 minute target. To date, and with the support of the general public and Crystal Palace fans, Josephine has fundraised £25,800 which will go directly towards supporting families across the UK affected by brain and spine injuries.
We were also joined by a team of volunteers who braved the cold and drizzly weather to motivate our runners to the finish line. We’d like to thank everyone who joined us on the day for their support – we couldn’t do it without you.
Combined, our team of runners have raised just over £100,000. This significant funding will go directly towards funding our national Helpline run by neuroscience nurses, expert health information, peer support groups to tackle loneliness and isolation, and research to drive UK-wide positive change.
Marc Smith, Brain & Spine Foundation Chief Executive, said:
“Huge congratulations to our team of 32 runners for crossing the finish line and completing the most physically and emotionally challenging of events. We are overwhelmed by your determination, strength and resilience. Every step taken along the 26.2 mile route is a leap towards helping people across the UK living with neurological conditions – and their families. To every runner, their supporters and our amazing team of volunteers, thank you. It is only with your support that we can ensure no one faces their neuro journey alone.”
If you’re feeling inspired and want to take part in the TCS London Marathon then applications are now open! Find out more and join #teambrainandspine in April 2024 by clicking here.
