Taking on a challenge in memory of our loved ones

"Running has been a way for me to process losing my mum"

Katie took part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon this year in memory of her mum, Heather.

“I entered the ballot along with one of the school mum’s but didn’t get a place, so I decided to see if I could get a charity place.

I started looking for charities that helped people with COPD and came across Asthma + Lung UK. I was so happy to find a charity that supports people with the same condition as mum.

Training for the half marathon went well as I took part in my local half marathon at the start of the year. I found running was a really good outlet, I would always think of mum during my runs and physically it was great for my health.

In total I was able to raise over £600 for Asthma + Lung UK! I hope that this can go towards further research and support people with lung conditions.”

"I love and miss him enormously - running in his memory was fuel for those final few miles"

Stephen, from Dumbarton, ran the Great Scottish Run in memory of his dad Peter, who died from COPD.

He says, "I started running when I was 29 (I'm now 45) and had only done one previous half marathon. I tend to run 5-10K distance, so while training for half marathon was gruelling at times (I never knew you could acquire a run-hangover!), I was feeling very excited and motivated to keep extending my distances each week. 

I ran in memory of my dad, Peter. He passed away in March 2024 from COPD, so Asthma + Lung UK seemed the right charity to run for. I was also diagnosed with asthma as a child.

A medal at the finishing line is personally a fitting reminder of the race, but donations made to Asthma + Lung UK is the unseen prize, benefiting everyone who lives with a lung condition."

“Better treatments and research could save lives, and I want to do my part to help.”

In 1998, Jonathan lost his sister to an asthma attack. Living with asthma himself, he has always held Asthma + Lung UK close to his heart. So when he signed up for the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia 50km, one of the toughest events in the UK, he knew he wanted to fundraise for us.

“In the weeks leading up to the race, I had a chest infection and a painful ankle injury. I kept going as I was determined to raise awareness and vital funds for a cause that means so much to me and my family.

“I had great support from family and friends cheering me on at checkpoints. In total I was able to raise £3,250 which I hope will help continue the charity’s incredible work, providing life-changing research for people with lung conditions.”