Sam runs the London Marathon for Derby Samaritans
Allestree Dad runs his first full marathon in London on Sunday to promote that talking can save lives and raise money to support Derby and District Samaritans Branch
On Sunday 26th April 35 year old Sam will be at the start of the London Marathon mixed with trepidation and excitement about what the next 26 miles will have in store. Uppermost in his thoughts will be seeing his wife Bethan and 6 month old son Stanley at the finish line along with other family members.
“I can’t really claim to being a runner. I’ve played sport competitively my whole life, football, cricket, padel, squash, badminton … pretty much anything. I retired from football with an injury 5 years ago and decided doing a marathon would be a good life achievement so I entered the ballot for London. I’d only ever run 2 half marathons before; this will be a challenge” says Sam.
Sam admits that the training has been tough. He started running last summer to get some miles into his legs to avoid injury. 5k, 10k and half marathons have been an important part of Sam’s training. “Bethan has been really supportive as despite having a new- born baby added to our family during this time I’ve been out running. I’m very competitive and always looking to improve my time. I guess she’ll be pleased when Sunday is over when I’ll be there to help out a bit more. However, the cricket season is here….” adds Sam.
In addition to running the London Marathon as a personal challenge, Sam is raising money for Derby Samaritans but also wishes to promote the message that suicide is preventable. “My Mum is a listening volunteer with Derby Samaritans and absolutely loves it. Listening and supporting callers gives her a real sense of purpose and achievement. The Derby Branch has to raise £40,000 a year to keep it running. They’re all volunteers so every penny will make a real difference” says Sam.
Sam went on to say “I was shocked to learn that the suicide rates in Derby and Derbyshire is above the national average. Men are a high risk group. So, if I can also get across the message that talking can help, it will all have been worthwhile. Reaching out to someone could help them know that they are valued and someone cares. A simple message can mean a lot to someone who is going through a difficult time. and if only they can be encouraged to talk the outcome may be different. Calling the Samaritans on 116 123 may turn a life around.”
Derby Branch Director Stephanie Taylor says “running the London Marathon to raise funds for our busy Derby Branch is something we really appreciate. It’ll take up a lot of Sam’s day and the funds he raises will help us to continue to offer our service to many distressed and despairing callers. Our volunteers give up their time every day of the year at all hours of the day and night so that we can be there to listen when no one else is. Support from people like Sam to keep us going means a great deal.”
You can support Sams London Marathon by clicking on this link