Hi, my name is Darren and this year I’m taking on the Manchester Half Marathon, something I never thought I’d do again after two knee operations and running with no cartilage in my right knee. But I’ve found a reason bigger than myself: my nephew, Luca.

Luca is one of twins, born alongside his brother Maxwell. But unlike Max, Luca came into the world facing an unimaginable challenge, a serious heart condition called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Within days of his birth, he was taken away from his family for open heart surgery. His tiny chest had to be left open for days, surrounded by wires and machines, as doctors fought to give him the best chance at life.

This was just the start of Luca’s journey. Over his lifetime he will need multiple major operations. Right now, he faces at least six months in hospital, while his parents, Bryony and Sam, juggle caring for him, raising Max and their big sister Elodie, and navigating the daily challenges of living between hospital and home.

As a father of three myself, I can only imagine the emotional and financial strain this brings from travel costs, to meals on the go, to the constant uncertainty of how to manage family life under such pressure.

That’s why I’m running this half marathon in Luca’s name. Every penny raised will go directly to his family in New Zealand, helping them through these critical months. Whether it’s covering the cost of fuel, a quick meal on the way back from hospital, or just easing the pressure so they can focus on what matters most, being there for Luca.

If you can spare anything at all, please consider donating. Your support will mean the world to Luca, his twin Max, big sister Elodie, and his parents, Bryony and Sam.

Together, we can help lighten their load as they face this incredibly tough journey.

Thank you.

Darren