With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet Andy dad to heart hero Arthur…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“I have wanted to do the London Marathon since I started running and can’t think of a cause closer to my heart than CHSF after the support they gave us when our son Arthur had to have heart surgery in Leeds when he was just 4 months old.”
Can you share a little bit more about your connection to CHSF?
“At a few days old, Arthur was diagnosed with a Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and an Atrial septal defect (ASD) – two holes in his heart – after a nurse noticed he had a heart murmur during some routine observations.
“We were initially told the holes might close in time as Arthur grew but following further scans, we got the news he would need surgery in Leeds which was really scary and upsetting.
“CHSF provided us with information about the procedure Arthur was going to have, what to expect in the run up to and on the day of the operation, and during recovery, which helped with the fear of the unknown.
“Prior to his operation, Arthur was struggling to put on weight. He was given a nasal feeding tube and was on diuretics to help his breathing because he had fluid on his lungs, so it was a really tough time. Despite it all he was such a happy and brave little boy and we had great support from the cardiac team in close to home Sheffield that CHSF helps to fund – especially Cardiac Nurse Specialist Sally Roberts and Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist Daniel Velasco Sanchez.
“Arthur’s surgery was performed by the wonderful Giuseppe Pelella, and we will forever be grateful to him and all the doctors, nurses and staff at Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. CHSF provided accommodation so we could stay onsite for the duration of Arthur’s stay in hospital, which was a great comfort as it meant we could take it in turns to get some rest when we weren’t at his bedside.”
Pictured: Andy with his son Arthur
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“It’s been going well although finding the time to get out running three or four times a week has been a challenge.
“I am training with my friend Ollie who is also running London for CHSF and we do our long runs together at weekends and keep each other going – it’s been great to see his little boy Alex doing so well after his operation too.
“I particularly enjoyed a run round Derwent dam and reservoir on a beautiful early spring morning, and seeing a Kingfisher in Endcliffe park during another early morning outing.”
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“After the Sheffield Half Marathon at the end of March, a family stopped me to ask for details of how to sponsor me as their little girl (who was excitedly pointing out Katie Bear on my CHSF running top) had had two heart surgeries in Leeds, so that was really nice.
“I also got talking to a mum in the gym whose baby girl had recently had surgery in Leeds and she sponsored us too.
“The hardest part has definitely been the weather – 16 miles in the snow with a bitterly cold headwind and hailstones was not so nice!”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“I would love to dip under the 3-hour mark, but I just want to enjoy the day and the atmosphere. I have previously done the Leeds Marathon for CHSF and the support there was fantastic, but London is the most famous marathon in the world so I am really excited to be taking part.
“My mum came to cheer me on in Leeds which was lovely but to have Laura (my wife) and Arthur there this time will make it extra special, and I think some other family and friends will also be supporting along the route so that will be really nice.
Pictured: Andy with Ollie, Tommy Frank and CHSF’s Keely at Sheffield Half Marathon in March
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“I never realised how common congenital heart defects are and when Arthur was diagnosed it was such a shock to us. We are so grateful for the support we received from CHSF and I am just really pleased to be able to give a little back to help ensure that other families who have little ones that need heart operations can also receive that help and support. “
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“To everyone who has donated just a massive thank you – this is the third event I have done to raise money for CHSF, and I am really grateful for people’s continued generosity.
“I would also like to say a big thank you to our families for their love and support, you are all amazing! A special mention to Laura for putting up with all the running, for cooking the best post-run meals, and for being an absolute supermum to Arthur.
“And to Arthur – sorry I won’t win the marathon and thank you for always pointing out how sweaty Daddy is when I get back from my runs!”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“I’m Still Standing by Elton John, or ‘Johnny’s song’ (from the film Sing) as it’s known in our house – it’s one of Arthur’s favourites and always reminds me of why I keep going when it starts to hurt!”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
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