Ian prepares for marathon challenge

This weekend, Ian Smith is taking on the London Marathon for Heartlands Hospital Charity after the care that his father, Ron, received at the hospital.

Although Ian has run marathons before, this is his first London Marathon, as he has finally got himself a place after eight years of applying. Ian hopes that it will be worth the wait, and is raising money for Heartlands Hospital Charity after his dad, Ron, had three aneurysms back in 2016. Ron was then referred to Mr Adam in the vascular team at Heartlands Hospital, the leading Vascular Unit in the area.

Ron had three operations during the summer of 2016 on his aneurysms and had three follow up operations in 2018 and another one in February 2019. Speaking of the care that his dad received, Ian said: “The care and attention he received was amazing. The staff were also very supportive to all of the family and this is something we shall never forget.”

Ron, pictured at Heartlands Hospital.

Ian is raising money for the vascular team at the hospital and has so far raised an incredible £427, with his employer, HSBC, promising to donate up to £1,000 in match-funding.

Ian said: “A special thank you goes to Jemma and all of the team at our work gym. Since I discovered I had my place in the marathon they have been getting me fitter for the event and I have lost over a stone in weight.”

Sian Averill, Fundraising Manager at Heartlands Hospital Charity, said: “I would like to wish Ian the best of luck for the London Marathon! It’s great to know that amongst the thousands of runners taking part, Ian will be there doing it for Heartlands Hospital Charity.

“The money he raises will go a long way to help make the hospital experience even better for patients like Ron, and I would like to thank everyone who has donated to Ian’s page. Good luck Ian!”

You can sponsor Ian on his JustGiving page here.

If you've been inspired to take on a running challenge, check out our events page!