Ellen Arkwright

I’m running London Landmarks Half Marathon for Parkinson’s UK

I’m running the London Landmarks Marathon in memory of my grandad, and this is something deeply personal to me. For those that know me know how much my grandad meant to me and my family, and how much of my life he helped shape. Because of the man he was, I am who I am today—he is my inspiration, and I carry so much of who he was with me every single day.

He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s when I was just 12 years old, and from that moment, my childhood changed as I became a young carer for him. I lost him when I was just 16 years old, and we should have had so much more time together—time that this illness took from us.

Despite everything he faced, he was still my grandad—still the best person I knew. He would always ask how my day was, even on the days when he couldn’t remember me, showing a kindness and love that never faded. Parkinson’s is a cruel illness that can slowly rob someone of so much—their independence, their mobility, their voice, and even their memories—yet it never took away who he was at his core. Through every challenge, he carried resilience, humour, stubbornness, and quiet courage that continues to inspire me.

This is a deeply personal and tough challenge, and it’s not just for my grandad—this is for everyone battling this illness. If I can do anything to give back and help those who are being robbed of their quality of life, then I will be doing my part. Now it’s time we turn the tables on Parkinson’s and help change the lives of those living with it, so they don’t have to go through it alone. I hope I can make a difference and be part of that change. If you can donate, it would truly mean the world. Every bit of support helps bring hope, fund research, and stand beside those who need it most