My Story

I will be running the London Marathon in April 2024 to raise money for the amazing Maggie’s, in memory of Liam Paul Ward. 

My brother-in-law, Liam, was so much fun. He was witty, intelligent, hard-working and an amazing dad. He had great music taste, always knew everything about the newest technology, made the best Sunday dinners, and he loved a challenge. 

When he became poorly, I remember going for a run with my sister, Mel, around Cheadle village; it was about 5km and it was hard!! But I remember feeling a sense of calm and escape in the middle of what was a really difficult time for us. 

It only seems right that I would be running this marathon alongside my big sister, Mel, for our brother. I know that if Liam was here, he would laugh and joke about how we don’t quite know what we’ve got ourselves into. As the realist he was, he would make sure we knew exactly how far 42.195km is, and how difficult that will be to run! But I also know how proud he would be. 

During Liam’s illness, the Knutsford community really rallied together to support Liam, Kayla and their two amazing boys, Owen and Kane. The love we all felt as a family was so special to us. Everyone became a part of ‘Team Ward’, and I'm going to need to ask for that support once more - not only in donations, but in encouragement, running buddies, advice and support!

I have decided to run my marathon to raise money for the wonderful Maggie’s...

Maggie’s Manchester was a special place for Liam and Kayla. I remember when they came home from another tough treatment at The Christie, this time beaming and talking about the most amazing place they had visited. Visiting Maggie’s was like a welcome break, a breath of fresh air, an escape; it was somewhere they could go for a cup of tea,  admire the beautiful building, talk if they wanted to, and just be. 

Maggie's Centres offer practical and emotional support to people with any type of cancer, at any stage, for free. They receive no government funds and rely solely on the generosity of their supporters. 

They focus on the things that really make a difference, such as financial worries, housing, help with managing stress and anxiety, as well as side effects of treatment and family support.

So if you can, at any point on my running journey, please do sponsor and/or support my fundraising in memory of our Liam, and for the very special Maggie’s charity.