Twyford dad runs to being runs ‘a little bit of happiness’
A FATHER of three from Twyford is halfway through a year-long marathon challenge.
Justin Malin set himself a target of running 52 marathons in 52 weeks for Make-A-Wish UK.
He is set to complete his challenge in this October’s London Marathon. And last Sunday, April 10, he completed marathon number 26.
Justin says that he wants to bring “a little bit of happiness” to the lives of the critically ill children and their families supported by the charity.
“I’d been thinking of doing a challenge for a while,” he says.
“I started going running on Saturday mornings, and the runs just kept getting longer and longer.
“So then I thought why not a marathon?”
When he was awarded a place last October to run in this year’s London Marathon for Make-A-Wish-UK, he realised that he could finish a 52-week fundraising challenge by crossing the line on The Mall.
Justin was inspired to fundraise for Make-A-Wish UK by his daughter Eva, who works for the charity.
“She would tell me all these stories about the wishes they were granting for critically ill children,” he explains.
“I already knew how lucky I was to have three healthy daughters, but the work of Make-A-Wish UK really brings that to life – you realise not every family is that lucky.
“So, I wanted to help bring a little bit of happiness to their lives.”
Stephanie Witt, director of income and engagement for the charity said that the charity are “incredibly grateful” for Justin’s support.
“When a child is diagnosed with a critical condition, the joy of childhood is brought to an abrupt end with treatment plans, appointments and worry taking over,” she says.
“The wishes we grant bring light in the darkest times and can leave
a profound and lasting impact on children and their loved ones.”
It is this thought which has kept Justin going.
“Starting in October meant a lot of running in the cold and the dark, so it hasn’t been easy.
“And every marathon is different and brings its own challenges.
“But the support I have had from family and friends, and my work, has been fantastic.
“When I cross the finish line at London Marathon, it’s going to feel amazing – especially knowing that I’ve helped Make-A-Wish along the way.”
He aims to raise £2,500 — the average cost of a wish — for the charity.