Jamie's first ever Marathon

Ashley Williams

18/04/19

With only one more weekend to go until one of London’s most conic sporting events, The Virgin Money London Marathon – we hear from one of our amazing marathon runners. Jamie tells us why he got involved and shares his dedicated training regime. We wish Jamie and all the #teamlivability runners all the best in this final run up to the big day.

So – only a few days to go! What made you decide to take on the London Marathon?

The reason for doing this world-renowned event and supporting Livability is because my mum is only 69 and has suffered two major strokes in the past five years. This has left her bedridden and barely able to put a sentence together. She would be so proud of me doing this. The job her nursing home does is fantastic, under all sorts of pressure, so this resonates so much with what Livability does.

It’s great that you’re using this experience to do something positive …

Yes and my personal experience is that I was born with a form of plegia down my right side, so muscles didn’t develop as well, but I don’t see it as a disability. At times I struggle with dexterity in my right hand, amongst other things but have never let it get to me over the years.

We’re really grateful for your support. How did you hear about Livability’s work?

Through a family member, Mandy Nixon, who is deputy manager at Livability Treetops residential home in Essex. Mandy explained what Livability is all about and it felt right to support them.

When did you start training?

Boxing Day! It has been really good on the whole, with some challenging moments, but you dig deep to get through it. I’m very excited, anxious and nervous all rolled into one, but I’m as ready as I will ever be.