Becky Bovey is clocking up the miles ahead of running her first marathon. Joining more than 50,000 runners on Sunday 26 April she tells us why running this year’s TCS London Marathon is so important to her.
"I never thought I'd be able to do it": running the London Marathon for my mum
Running in memory
I was excited to tell my mum I had applied for the London Marathon so she could keep an eye out for me on TV. Unfortunately, she died five days before I found out that I got a place in the marathon to run for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
I’m honoured to be running in memory of my beloved mum, Beverley Newnham, who we lost at the beginning of May last year. I’m also running in memory of my uncle, Grahame Young, who both had myotonic dystrophy.
My mum was diagnosed with the condition 26 years ago and following this, my two uncles were also diagnosed. We sadly lost my mum unexpectedly, as she passed away due to complications from the condition. We also lost my uncle, Grahame, three years ago, and my other uncle now has very reduced mobility.
Myotonic dystrophy robbed my mum’s quality of life and stopped her from doing what she loved. She used to play hockey and netball for our county and was really active. However, it left her unable to walk or live an independent lifestyle and she had to rely on carers to help her with the simple things towards the end.
The big race day
Running the London Marathon itself means so much, not only did I grow up watching it every year with my mum – pointing out the best fancy dress! – but it’s something I never thought I’d ever be able to complete. I was never a sporty kid and did everything I could to get out of sports at school. I’m really hoping I can cross the finish line in under five hours.
After watching my mum and my uncle Grahame’s health deteriorate over the years, I knew it was something I could do. I want to run the London Marathon in memory of my mum and for my uncles and raise as much money as possible to help other people who live with a muscle wasting condition – ensuring they get the support they need to live their lives to the full.
Having lost loved ones, it’s given me even more drive and motivation to complete the course. The running has kept me focused through what has been a very difficult time. I’m proud to wear my Muscular Dystrophy UK running vest on my long runs. I’ve even travelled to London from Devon to meet other charity runners and run a half marathon in preparation. I can’t wait for the big day.
Becky's marathon challenge
Support Becky’s fundraising in memory of her mum
