This year, I’ll be joining a group of friends from Coolock Running Club to take on a very special challenge: seven running events covering a total of 125km, all while pushing my first cousin’s son, Luke, in an adapted running chair generously sponsored by CRC.

Luke lives with profound disabilities, including cerebral palsy and blindness. This journey is about giving him the opportunity to experience the excitement, atmosphere and incredible sense of achievement that comes with race day — an experience he would otherwise have very limited access to.

Over the course of the seven events, we’ll share every kilometre, every finish line and every memorable moment together. The challenge will culminate in a particularly special occasion when Luke joins us for the Dublin Marathon, making it an unforgettable experience for him and for the team alongside him: Denise Yeates, Stephen Boylan, Keith McCann, Anthony Brady, Greg O’Flaherty and myself, Brian Ellison.

Along the way, we’ll also be raising vital funds for Stewart’s Care Respite Services, whose support makes an enormous difference to Luke and his family.

For us, this challenge is about much more than running 125km. Every kilometre represents inclusion, connection and the opportunity to give something back to the people who play such an important part in Luke’s life.

Most importantly, it’s about making sure Luke is right there with us — experiencing the atmosphere, crossing the finish lines and being part of every moment.