Jakey Harrison

Running the London Marathon for Pa

On Saturday 24 April 2027 I’ll be taking on the London Marathon for Parkinson’s UK in memory of my grandad, who we called Pa. 

Growing up, Pa was one of the biggest characters in our family. He was always making people laugh, and even after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s he never lost his sense of humour. As his condition progressed, we saw first hand how Parkinson’s affected not only him, but those around him who were there for him every day. But through it all, he faced every challenge with incredible strength, never letting Parkinson’s define him.

Earlier this year we sadly lost Pa after he had lived an incredibly full life. Running this marathon is my way of honouring his memory, and every mile I run will be for him.

I’m by no means a marathon runner (I’m barely even a parkrunner!!), so taking on the London Marathon will be the biggest physical challenge I’ve ever faced. Whenever it gets tough, I’ll think of Pa and the strength he showed throughout his journey. I know he’ll be with me every step of the way.

Parkinson’s UK supports people and families through every stage of their Parkinson’s journey, while funding research into better treatments and, one day, a cure. Supporting that work in Pa’s memory means the world to me.

I’ll be sharing my training and fundraising over the coming months, so thank you so much for following the journey and for any support you can give. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference.

Jakey x