A MORGAN Motor Company worker has said he has been overwhelmed by the support from the Malvern community as he prepares to tackle next year’s London Marathon in memory of his father.
James Gilbert, who works as a press officer for the Spring Lane car manufacturer, will take part in next year’s gruelling 26-mile event to mark the life of his father Richard who died last year aged 58 from an unexpected heart attack while at home.
His target is to raise £5,000 for the British Heart Foundation which will help the charity fund vital research in the hope of reducing the number of victims losing their lives to heart attacks.
And he is already passed the £2,000 mark following a huge flock of donations sent to his JustGiving page.
Next year’s London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 23 and James wants to raise all the funds before the big day arrives.
James was on holiday when his dad suffered the heart attack and even though he returned on the same day, he never got to see him in his final moments of his life.
On his JustGiving page he said: “As anyone who knows me will be fully aware, I am not the finest example of physical fitness on the planet (understatement) and the thought of doing a marathon is completely stupid, but I would like to do something that pushes me, raises money for a worthy cause and most importantly in memory of my Dad.
“I had been on holiday for a week and returned the same day that he passed, unfortunately not getting to see him. In a split second mine and my families lives changed forever, without warning and unimaginably.
“As a person who epitomised the phrase “living life to the full”, the sudden taking of his life at just 58 seemed so unfair.
“Unfortunately my family are not alone, there are thousands of families suffering losses each year as a result of heart related illnesses and diseases. The money donated to British Heart Foundation helps to fund vital research and education, preventing heart attacks and saving lives.”
Speaking to the Observer, James added: “I have been overwhelmed with the support so far, it’s been great to get that level of support from the people of Malvern.”
James has also urged local businesses to support his efforts. By making a signifcant donation firms can have their name and logo on his printed t-shirt which he will wear during the marathon.
Anyone wishing to donate to James’ efforts should visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jameswgilbert.
