They look happy enough, don't they? And that logo on their t-shirts - hiding behind the medals - I can tell you that it reads 'Madness 4 Mike'.
Here's what Sam writes about the project: Since losing my Dad to Bowel Cancer on 28th March 2012, I've been thinking of ways to raise money for the charity that helped my Dad. I can see you like them already, turning a family tragedy into something positive.
And then one of them suggested they set out to complete (walking, running, but always in a recognised event) 2014Km in 2014. Do you have any idea how far that is? It's like running all the way from London to Reykjavik (that's assuming you can run on water - given what they've achieved I've sometimes wondered if they've done just that).
They've had to work, of course. Not easy-peasy jobs that give them time for training. They are both vets, so they spend much of their time with their hands in sundry animal orifices. They sit up with sick creatures and will them to keep breathing. They rejoice in the pooch that trots away with her well-being restored; they comfort grieving owners. Not work for the faint-hearted.
But, once they'd started this project, nothing would stop them. And friends and family joined in. Anyone with legs and energy was welcome to contribute. Andy's mother trekked across Vietnam for them. Even my grandson ran 5Km (and had green paint thrown at him), his mother puffing alongside him, as a contribution.
Between them and their supporters they finished a total of 43 events - and Sam and Andy did most of them. The total distance: 3279Km. So far they have raised over £14,300.
So next time you're weeping into your pillow and everything feels like the end of the world, it's worth remembering what can be done. It's your party and you cry if you want to. But maybe, when you've dried your tears, you can transform that energy into something worthwhile. Though you don't have to do something quite as bonkers as this.
If you want to know more, have a look at their website here.
And, in the hope it doesn't put you off, here's what they looked like at the end of the New York Marathon:
Now you've made me weep, Jo, or at least given me a lump in my throat. A wonderful couple doing great things that have brought others together too. Beautiful. And well done them!! Since I've just been tearful, I shall now have to go away and do something positive.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Val - they are rather special, aren't they? But they wouldn't want you to cry!
DeleteAmazing people.. thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteAren't they special!!!
DeleteThe challenge has taught us that anyone, at any age, any lifestyle can always make a change, and make a difference. We have been overwhelmed by the support from friends, family, and total strangers donating their time, effort and money towards our cause - all helping to raise money for hospices across the UK. It has brought people together and shown true humanity and positivity as well as being very cathartic to me. Thank you Jo for such a lovely piece, if you would like to read our blog and story please visit www.madness4mike.com I have put a piece about the NYC a marathon up today :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you - I've no idea which of you wrote this, but I am truly proud of you both. You have done something very special.
DeleteThank you for not pulling your punches. How amazing that couple are and you're so right to remind us to get up and do rather than complain.
ReplyDeleteI don't often do punch-pulling, as you know, Ros!! Thanks for dropping by.
DeleteI commented on this from Facebook but sometimes facebook just throws the comments away. What a lovely couple and to turn grief into something so positive is so good. Also what they are doing take hard work and commitment.
ReplyDeleteAren't they wonderful!! I'm so proud of them.
DeleteI can't think highly enough of this couple. Thanks for alerting us to their great work.
ReplyDeleteGreetings from London.