Neil takes on the Royal Parks Half Marathon to fundraise for Willow

Neil Prior was on the lookout to support a charity and happened to find Willow. With no previous links to us, Neil resonated with our mission so much he decided to take on a half a marathon to raise money for Willow running 13.1 miles through London Royal Parks.

“During the run was amazing. The fellow runners, all the support and friends who came out to cheer me along – I wasn’t ready for all the random acts of kindness from strangers”

Neil shared what inspired him to support Willow: 

“We all take having our freedom to spend time away with friends and family, for granted. But having that taken away from you because of a serious illness must be awful. When I discovered Willow, I realised how important that opportunity is, and so I wanted to support you, so you can continue your special days out.” 

Neil was a beginner in the world of running, so he dedicated time to his half marathon preparations by slowly but surely building his stamina and gradually increased his training to three runs a week. 

“I must admit running my first half marathon was quite a step up from Parkrun and 10k’s. So, I joined a running club and increased my running to twice a week and then three times a week. I started adding extra runs after parkrun and managed a 19km run during training, my longest ever.” 

Even after all that preparation Neil felt the nerves of his first ever half marathon sneaking up on him, but the realisation that he had his friends, and fellow runners, helped to get him through it! 

“I was feeling nervous before the run. I wanted to do well, and I didn’t want to let my supporters or myself down. During the run was amazing. The fellow runners, all the support and friends who came out to cheer me along – I wasn’t ready for all the random acts of kindness from strangers. After I felt elated, proud, amazing, tired, aching but above all content in knowing I had overcome a personal challenge and that I was helping people less fortunate than myself to enjoy a special day out.” 

A heartfelt thank you

We are incredibly grateful to Neil for taking on this fantastic challenge and helping Willow create more precious memories for seriously ill young adults and their loved ones.

Inspired by Neil? Why not take on a fundraising challenge of your own? Find out how you can support Willow or explore our upcoming fundraising events.