For many of us, running a marathon is a lifelong goal. For Tom, it’s just the beginning of something even bigger — a mission of love, endurance, and hope inspired by his daughter, Beth.
In 2026, Tom will take on an extraordinary challenge to run four marathons in just eight weeks. He’ll begin with the Great Welsh Marathon in March, followed by Paris and London in April, and finally completeing his challenge at Copenhagen in May. Tom’s challenge reflects the help and support Beth and his family have received throughout Beth’s life. Aiming to run one marathon for each of the four charities closest to his heart.
A Father’s Motivation
Tom said:
“In September 2015, Beth was born with Dravet Syndrome, a severe genetic form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, causing difficult-to-control seizures, developmental delays, and other associated conditions such as autism, ADHD, and motor and speech difficulties.”
The challenges that come with Dravet Syndrome are immense, as Tom shares:
“Beth is non-verbal, doubly incontinent, and has no concept of danger. She requires constant supervision to keep her safe and has suffered more than 1,000 seizures to date — many lasting over an hour,”
Through all the struggles, his family has received vital support from four incredible charities: Dravet Syndrome UK, Park Lane Stables RDA, Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, and Yorda Adventures.
“In 2026, I decided to take on this challenge with the target of raising at least £3,000 for each charity. Beth is of Welsh, French, English, and Danish heritage — quite the combo! So, it feels fitting that my four marathons span all those connections.”
Running for Something Bigger
For Tom, motivation runs deeper than finish times. “My primary motivation is knowing that Beth has experienced hundreds of harder days than even the toughest run,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be able to get out and exercise. Completing every training session is vital, not just to prepare my body, but to honour her strength.”
Despite the demands of training, Tom is grounded by the love and support of those around him. “Preparing properly for a marathon is certainly time-consuming,” he admitted, “but I’ve received excellent support from friends and family so far, and hopefully they’re proud of what I’m trying to achieve.”
The Charities That Make a Difference
Each of the four marathons represents a cause close to Tom’s heart.
Dravet Syndrome UK provides life-saving seizure monitors, a 24/7 helpline, family support weekends, and educational resources, as well as funding crucial research.
Park Lane Stables RDA in Teddington offers therapeutic horse riding for children and adults with disabilities. “Beth rides there every Tuesday morning,” Tom said. “It’s amazing to see the calming influence the horses have on her.”
Shooting Star Children’s Hospices provide essential care and emotional support to families of children with life-limiting conditions. “Beth loves her fortnightly trips to the hydrotherapy pool at Shooting Star in Hampton,” Tom added.
Finally, Yorda Adventures in Chessington gives disabled children a safe and joyful space to play and connect. “Beth and her sister Grace have enjoyed so many wonderful moments there and it’s a truly welcoming and special place.”
Words of Encouragement
Tom’s challenge is both monumental and deeply personal. Yet his advice for others taking on their own running goals is refreshingly simple:
“Diarise your training plan — it helps keep you focused and motivated. But be kind to yourself if life gets in the way. And when marathon day comes, enjoy it! There’s no need to be nervous. Marathons are special so embrace the opportunity and go for it.”
A Marathon of Love and Determination
As Tom prepares to run four marathons across four countries, his message is clear: this challenge isn’t just about endurance — it’s about family, gratitude, and giving back.
Every mile will be a celebration of Beth’s strength, a thank you to the charities that have supported them, and a reminder of what’s possible when love and purpose lead the way.
You can follow Tom’s journey and support his fundraising efforts here:
👉 gofund.me/c1179c396
📸 Instagram: @dravetdad
We look forward to welcoming Tom and cheer him on at the Great Welsh Marathon 2026, where the start of an incredible eight-week journey for an extraordinary cause will begin!
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