Brighton Marathon in honour of friend

Supporter Stuart ran in the 2024 Brighton Marathon to honour the memory of his friend, Simon, who we supported after he lost his sight.

As well as losing his sight, Simon suffered severe head and neck injuries as a result of an accident while playing rugby with the Army.

Stuart, 44, and from London, says:

“Simon was a kind, gentle man whose strength was not only physical but also of character and heart.

"Following the accident, Simon was left fighting for his life, but he didn’t give up. Sadly his life was cut short and he died in 2008 at the age of 29, but his memory lives on.

“Simon was an accomplished sportsman and loved playing rugby. He was a true inspiration and never let the course of life stop him from being a kind and considerate son, brother and an amazing friend.

“I signed up to take part in the Brighton Marathon in January, as that would have been Simon’s 45th birthday. We were neighbours growing up, he was one year and three days older than me.”

Despite only giving himself three months to prepare for the event, Stuart finished in three hours and 39 minutes. He set himself a tough training programme. 87 days of running or strength training. He says:

“I wouldn’t say I breezed the marathon, but I got around. I was spurred on as I passed the old Blind Veterans UK Wellbeing Centre. I didn’t actually know it was there so was gobsmacked when I saw it."

Following his marathon run, Stuart says:

“I feel a bit emotional, I just wanted to make Simon proud and I hope I’ve done that. I know what an amazing job Blind Veterans UK does and I’m delighted to have been able to do something to honour Simon and to also support other blind veterans."

So far Stuart has raised £1,135 for our charity. To show your support for Stuart and help him reach his fundraising target: