Running in Memory of My Dad: A Marathon Journey
I am excited to share that I've signed up for the Run Melbourne half marathon (21.1km), and I'm dedicating my efforts to raise funds for the Stroke Foundation. This journey is deeply personal and meaningful to me, as it is in honour of my dad, who experienced a stroke and passed away a year ago, in 2023.
My dad was an incredible man who gave me the platform to pursue my passions and dreams. His strength and resilience in the face of adversity have always been an inspiration to me. He was born in Zimbabwe (Rhodesia) and I still cherish the memory of him supporting his community by helping to build a local village outside Harare. He still has a secondary school and clinic named after him – Bosha.
When he suffered a stroke, it was a devastating blow to our family. We watched him fight bravely, but ultimately, the stroke took him from us. His passing left a void that can never be filled, but it also started a fire within me to make a difference.
Running has always been a way for me to clear my mind and find myself, and now it has become a way for me to honor my dad's memory. By participating in this marathon, I hope to contribute to the fight against strokes and help others who might be facing the same challenges our family did.
I have set a goal to raise $7,500 for the Stroke Foundation, and I am nearly there. This amount can go a long way in supporting their programs and helping those affected by strokes. I am proud to do something to give back and honor my dad's memory.
Training for a half marathon is challenging, but I am committed to giving it my all. Each step I take will be in memory of my dad. I know he'll be there with me.