Running the London Marathon has always been a personal ambition of mine. Like many, it sits on that mental list of things I hoped one day to achieve, a test of resilience, discipline, and endurance. However, that ambition has now taken on a much deeper meaning.
I joined the Army Reserve in 2021 and currently serve with 94 (Berkshire Yeomanry) Signal Squadron in Windsor. From the moment I joined, I experienced first-hand the strength of camaraderie, mutual support, and shared purpose that defines our unit and what it is to serve. It is a community built not simply on professionalism, but on genuine care for one another, something that becomes most visible when adversity strikes.
Sadly, over the past two years, two of my colleagues have faced that adversity, both were diagnosed with cancer. Throughout their treatment and recovery journeys, the Royal Signals Charity provided vital support.
Tragically, one of those colleagues, Lance Corporal Payne, lost her battle with cancer just before Christmas. She leaves behind her partner and young son. Her strength, dignity, and courage throughout her illness left a profound impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. The support provided by the Royal Signals Charity to her and her family during that time was nothing short of exceptional.
It was in witnessing this support I realised that my long-held goal of running the London Marathon could become something far more meaningful, an opportunity to give back to a charity that stands by its people when they need it most.
The Royal Signals Charity does extraordinary work across our Corps, providing welfare support, grants, and practical assistance to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Often, this support is delivered at moments of acute crisis, when stability, reassurance, and dignity matter more than anything else. Their impact is real, tangible, and deeply personal.
Running 26.2 miles will undoubtedly be physically demanding, particularly after my training was set back for almost four months following being hit by a car. While this disrupted my preparation, it has only strengthened my determination to complete the marathon. If taking on this challenge and the struggle that comes with it can help raise funds for charities that have provided such vital support to others, then every mile will be worth it.
I am immensely grateful for any support given. Every donation helps ensure that the Royal Signals Charity can continue to stand beside our people, just as they did for my colleagues when it mattered most.
