Holly Jarrett

Why I’m Running the London Marathon 2027

When I secured my place in the London Marathon 2027, it wasn’t just about ticking something off my bucket list. It was about doing something that truly means something to me.

Running a marathon has always felt like one of those incredible challenges that pushes you beyond what you ever thought was possible. But for me, this isn’t just about the finish line or the medal I’ll receive at the end. It’s about running with purpose.

When I was 20 years old, my mum passed away from breast cancer. 

Losing your mum at any age is heartbreaking, but at 20, I felt like I was just beginning to navigate adulthood. There were so many milestones she never got to see, so many conversations we never got to have, and so many moments I still wish I could share with her. Grief never really leaves you, it simply becomes something you learn to carry.

Over the years, I’ve often wondered how different life might have been if cancer research had been further ahead. If more could have been done. If families like mine didn’t have to experience such devastating loss.

That’s why I’ve chosen to support the World Cancer Research Fund.

Their work goes beyond treating cancer, they’re dedicated to understanding how cancer can be prevented through research into diet, nutrition, physical activity and lifestyle. They invest in scientific research across the world, helping to build a future where fewer families have to hear the words that change everything.

If my fundraising can help contribute, even in a small way, towards that future, then every mile, every early morning training run, every blister and every moment I want to give up will be worth it.

I’ll be honest, I’m not a runner! The thought of 26.2 miles is daunting, and there will undoubtedly be days when training feels impossible. But whenever it gets tough, I’ll remind myself why I started.

I’ll be running in memory of my mum ♥️

I’ll be running for everyone who has lost someone they love.

I’ll be running for those currently fighting cancer.

And I’ll be running in the hope that one day, fewer families have to experience the heartbreak that mine did.

If you’d like to support my journey, whether that’s through a donation, sharing my fundraising page, or simply cheering me on, I’d be incredibly grateful. Every bit of encouragement will help carry me through those 26.2 miles.

Here’s to the journey ahead, and to making every step count 🏃‍♀️