This photo captures more than just a moment on the course at the Great Welsh Marathon—it tells a story of love, strength, and tribute. Here we see Michelle, running alongside her friend Beverley, clutching something very special: the medal her late husband Darren earned at the Great Welsh Half Marathon in April 2022.Â
Michelle said:
“Darren was an incredible husband, father, son, friend, and passionate runner. In 2024, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Even through chemotherapy, Darren’s spirit and humour shone brightly, and he continued to run whenever he could.”
Tragically, he passed away just a month before Michelle and Beverley ran this year’s race.
Despite a tricky period of interrupted training, Michelle ran every step of the course carrying Darren’s medal, honouring his memory and the dreams he had. Darren’s dream was to run the London Marathon, following in the footsteps of his mother, who had run it multiple times. With each stride, Darren was right there with them, inspiring courage, perseverance, and love for the man they so greatly missed.
This race was not just about crossing the finish line—it was about celebrating a life, a love, and the enduring inspiration Darren left behind.
Michelle’s strength is a reminder to us all that even in grief, we can find the power to run forward, carrying the memory of those we love. 💛
🏅 To Darren, forever in our hearts.
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