Running 26.2 miles in memory of my dad, to break the silence around mental health in construction.

Fundraising page: Mates in Mind: Thomas's page

I am running the marathon in memory of my dad, Chris, who we lost to suicide after a short period of mental ill-health caused by stress at work. His death is a painful reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, no matter how loved, successful, or strong they seem.

Dad was a civil engineer who worked his way up to become a respected senior construction manager. He was dedicated to his work, a natural leader, and a mentor to so many young people in the industry. Above all, he was a devoted family man, loved by his colleagues, friends, and by us, his family.

Since losing him, my family and I have worked closely with Mates in Mind to raise awareness of mental ill-health in construction. Too many people in this industry struggle in silence, and I want to play my part in changing that.

By running 26.2 miles, I’m honouring my dad’s memory and raising vital funds so that Mates in Mind can continue supporting mental health and breaking the stigma.

Watch Chris’s story:

Honouring my best friend Joe and raising awareness of mental health in construction.

Fundraising page: Mates in Mind: Tom's page

I’m running the marathon in memory of my lifelong best friend, Joe, who, like me, worked in construction. Having spent the past five years in the industry myself, supporting Mates in Mind is a cause that means a great deal to me.

Joe had a real passion for running, and I know he’d be incredibly proud to see me taking on this challenge. I’d never really considered running a marathon before, but when I saw the advert on our work noticeboard, I thought — life’s too short. This felt like my chance to step out of my comfort zone and push myself in his honour.

Running 26.2 miles is my way of helping to share the message that no one should face mental health struggles alone.

I’m also proud that my company, Marlborough Highways, has chosen Mates in Mind as our charity of the year. Together, we can raise awareness and make a real difference.

Running for every mate who ever said “I’m fine” when they weren’t.

Fundraising page: Mates in Mind: Chris's page

I am running the marathon for every mate who has ever said “I’m fine” when they weren’t. Having worked in the construction industry for over 20 years, I’ve seen first-hand how tough it can be — long hours, high pressure, and an old-school culture of “just getting on with it.”

Mental health often gets pushed aside, and too many people suffer in silence. With my brother and many close friends also in the industry, I know how vital it is to have support from people who understand the challenges.

That’s why I’ve chosen to run the London Marathon 2026 for Mates in Mind. My previous employer, Huws Gray, also proudly supports the charity, which is doing incredible work to break the stigma around mental ill-health.

Every step I take will be for my colleagues, friends, and family in construction — a reminder that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Standing up for mental health in transport — because our drivers deserve better.

Fundraising page: Mates in Mind: Nicole's page

I am running the marathon because mental health in transport can no longer be ignored. For over six years, I’ve worked for FORS (the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme), supporting transport and logistics professionals with the aim of creating safer roads for everyone.

In that time, I’ve seen the toll the job can take — physically, mentally, and emotionally. The facts are stark: 31% of drivers live with anxiety, 15% with depression, and suicide rates in men aged 45–59 are at their highest since 1981. With the average driver being 53, this group is at extremely high risk. On top of that, drivers have a 15-year lower life expectancy compared to the general population.

But these aren’t just numbers — they are our friends, families, and neighbours. That’s why I’m proud to run for Mates in Mind, a charity dedicated to ending the stigma around mental health in transport, logistics, and construction.

This marathon is my way of giving back to an industry I care deeply about and standing up for those who too often feel they must suffer in silence. Every mile I run is for the workers who keep this country moving.