The Ipswich runners turning pain into power at this year’s London Marathon

Why it matters: The London Marathon, celebrating its 44th anniversary this year, has become a platform for ordinary people doing extraordinary things to support causes close to their hearts.

The big picture: Each runner has a unique motivation, from honouring lost loved ones to giving back to organisations that provided crucial support.

Sarah Wootton and Jeff Hicks

Sarah Wootton, who works for UK Power Networks in Ipswich, will be running in memory of her husband Dean, who died in 2023 after being diagnosed with Myeloma.

"He encouraged me a lot and cheered me on," she said. "My races always gave him a buzz, a real lift."

She'll be joined by colleague and friend Jeff Hicks, who was also Dean's best friend. Jeff is running for Brain Research UK as his father-in-law had a brain tumour and his wife, Liz, has a rare neurological condition.

The pair began their running journey together at the Ipswich Half Marathon, raising money for Myeloma UK, and have since completed 50km ultra marathons.

"Yes, we are mad, and we plan to do more mad distances," said Jeff, a control engineer at UK Power Networks.

The UK Power Networks colleagues have already raised more than £3,500 through their Just Giving pages.

Visit Jeff's fundraising page | Visit Sarah's fundraising page

Osman Abdullah

Suffolk New College student Osman Abdullah, 19, is putting his best foot forward for the YMCA, who supported him after he moved to the UK from Sudan two years ago.

"I really want to give something back to the YMCA, as I lived there and know they need extra help financially," said Osman, who studies English (ESOL) and Maths. He hopes to raise £2000.00 and has already collected over £600.

He's been training by pacing the streets of Ipswich with a friend and regularly hitting half marathons in preparation. Suffolk New College has supported his efforts by donating branded training kit and trainers.

Craig Shimmon, Head of Marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Hats off to Osman. He is a true inspiration. Supporting him via the donation of training kit is the least we can do."

Visit Osman's fundraising page

Leah Rose

Leah Rose, Client Support Assistant at Ellisons Solicitors, is running for mental health charity MIND after beginning her running journey in January 2024.

"1 in 4 people experience mental health problems in their lifetime, so we need to continue the fight in spreading awareness in order to provide the help people need," said Leah, who secured a London Marathon place through the ballot system on her first attempt.

She added that she is "pleased with the amount raised so far" and the support received from friends, family, and colleagues.

Go to Leah's fundraising page

The bottom line: Despite different backgrounds and motivations, these Ipswich runners share a common goal of pushing themselves to the limit for causes that have profoundly affected their lives.