First taking part in Moors Valley parkrun in Dorset, he eventually added longer runs into his schedule.
Eager to challenge himself, he applied for the London Marathon and landed a place for 2025 via the ballot.
Having deferred his place to 2026, he said he now spends much of his time running around the New Forest – where he grew up – and the Bournemouth coastline.
“I appreciate life so much more after everything we have been through as a family, and my own personal battles with illness,” he said.
“Life is way too precious and being able to attempt something like this is a blessing and something I am very grateful for,” he added.
