Our Amazing Marathan Runners for Long Covid Kids in 2025
- Long Covid Kids
- 17 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Thank you to all of our Marathon runners this year, we have never had so many! They managed to raise over £7,500 which is an amazing amount for a small charity. Please read their stories below.
Grace ran the Manchester Marathon
"When I was unwell with Long Covid a doctor told me that the way I was feeling was as if I had run a marathon every morning and then be expected to function normally. Having completed Manchester Marathon I can confirm she wasn’t far off. The pain, the overwhelming mental and physical exhaustion and lack of control over your own body is all very similar to the symptoms I used to experience daily. Long covid took so much away from me, and completing the Marathon was about gaining back that control.
The day itself was hot…extremely hot. Especially since most of our training is done over winter, going from running in 5 degrees to 20 was a huge challenge. There were lots of times that I wanted to give up and questioned if we were going to finish, but each time I remembered that I am not just running for myself but also for those who can’t.
The kindness shown around the whole race was incredible. Strangers helping each other if they were struggling. From providing medical assistance to shouting your name with a few words of encouragement. The whole 26.2 miles there were people around you cheering you along.
The highlight was running down that final stretch. Hundreds of people cheering and clapping, with banners and signs. It made me so emotional as I think it was at that moment I realised just how far I had come. I used to get dizzy walking up a flight of stairs, not able to complete a full day of school and now I was about to complete a Marathon! I think it is safe to say there were a few tears at the finish line."
Cameron ran the Edinburgh Marathon
"Our son, Sam, who is twelve years old, has experienced symptoms of Long Covid since November 2021, but most acutely since May 2023. Sam's main symptoms are extreme fatigue and debilitating headaches. He has been largely unable to attend school and has had to miss out on many of the activities and experiences that define and enrich childhood. I am running to raise money and awareness for Long Covid Kids
I managed to keep going all the way to the end and finished without incurring any major damage! The whole point was to raise awareness of how Long Covid is affecting children, just as it so badly affects many adults. We also raised some funds for Long Covid Kids and the excellent work they do. Thank you all for helping me. ❤️ Cameron"
Charlie ran the London Marathon
"I was very nervous leading up to the day to say the least, but I have always been someone who feels the nerves before playing sport. I arrived at Blackheath for 8am, and the atmosphere was amazing, however due to my nerves I couldn’t stay still. Once the race began all the nerves went away, I began to really enjoy where I was and what I was doing. My favourite parts of the race was running over Tower Bridge where I saw my family and friends and embankment. Seeing my family and friends was one of my favourite parts because of the motivation it gives you to remember why you are doing the race in the first place.
The last 10 kilometres I found mentally and physically hard, especially with the heat. The pain I felt in my legs was nothing like I have ever felt before. However, I would certainly run it again if I had the opportunity as it’s one of the hardest yet proudest sporting events I have ever taken part in."
Seamus ran the London Marathon using our charity space.
"Long Covid Kids is Gravita’s Charity of the Year, and I am honoured to support this incredible cause by taking on the London Marathon. I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of Long Covid on children and families. One story that has deeply moved me is that of my colleague Jana’s son, Samir. Three years ago, Samir’s life changed completely. After contracting Covid-19, he developed debilitating physical and cognitive symptoms, leaving him disabled. He lost his education, childhood experiences, friendships, and dreams—a heartbreaking reality that too many children and families face.
Running the London Marathon has been a long-held dream, but this year, it means so much more. It’s an opportunity to raise vital funds for Long Covid Kids, so they can continue their essential work supporting children, parents, and caregivers navigating this difficult journey."
Becca took part in London Marathon My Way
"I missed the entry to London Marathon so I was delighted to be asked by Long Covid Kids to run the London Marathon My Way. This means you get all the glory of getting a tshirt and medal if completed but I could take part from anywhere! So I did this on marathon day in Kent.
I've been in training for a while, walking, running and weights! I am off to the Alps soon to participate on a mountain expedition course as my next BIG adventure will be taking on climbing Cho Oyu in the Himalayas in support of Macmillan Cancer Support. I loved helping raise awareness for Long Covid Kids while also getting some training in for my mountain challenge!"
If you are interested in running a marathon or any other fundraisers to help raise money and awareness then please consider supporting Long Covid Kids. Get in touch to tell us so that we can thank you and also help raise awareness by sharing on our social media, newsletters and website.
