THREE brothers from Reading are set to lace up and go the distance for their dad as the London Marathon returns next weekend.
Harry, 37, Will, 40, and Tom, 43, Satterthwaite are raising funds for Sue Ryder after their dad, Steve, was supported and cared for by the charity.
Steve was diagnosed with bowel cancer in May 2021 and died almost exactly a year later.
Steve’s wish was to spend his final days at home, surrounded by loved ones, which Sue Ryder’s team helped to make possible.
The brothers have already raised over £4,500 through creative fundraising efforts, including bake sales, social events, and online campaigns.
Harry said: “From the day dad was diagnosed, he stayed as positive as he could, despite knowing it was a terminal diagnosis.
“Sue Ryder was one of the charities we chose for donations at Dad’s funeral.
“Their care meant so much to our family, and we always knew they’d be the cause we’d want to support.”
“Not long after Dad’s diagnosis, my wife and I found out we were expecting a baby. Dad held on until our son was born, and that meant the world to all of us.”
He explained: “Since dad died, we’ve wanted to do something in his memory, and this felt like the perfect opportunity.
“I’ve been entering the London Marathon ballot for 15 years and finally got a place this June.
“My brothers jumped at the chance to join me, and it all spiralled from there
“I’ve always wanted to do the London Marathon, and it feels amazing to finally be ticking it off my bucket list.
“Training hasn’t been easy–especially with two young kids–but my wife has been so supportive.”
Tom said: “It is very special to be able to run London for a charity that was so important for Dad and for us during his final months.
“Running in Dad’s memory and helping other people get the support we had from Sue Ryder is a big inspiration to get us through the training.
“On the day it will be emotional, but I am looking forward to it.”
Will explained how overwhelmed the three have been with the response they’ve received: “The support from our family and friends so far has been incredible, with the kind words people have spoken about Dad when making their donations even more touching.
“When someone so close to you passes you know almost exactly what they would think or say in certain situations, and I know just how much this would all mean to Dad.”
More information about their fundraiser, including how to donate, is available via: justgiving.com
