A brave Balbeggie man is getting into shape before heading to London for his first marathon in aid of a children’s charity next weekend.
New to the running game, Ninewells nurse Mark Anderson has been training hard to prepare himself for the gruelling 26-mile course, despite fracturing his heel just five weeks ago.
The 43-year-old, who works on the Dundee hospital’s orthopaedic trauma ward, has already raised more than £650 for Children with Leukaemia and is hoping to reach the £1000 mark before the event on Sunday, April 25.
A close friend’s young daughter recently lost her battle with the disease, which also killed his father.
“Leukaemia is a terrible disease and one that affects many, many people in different ways,” Mark said.
“I’ve seen first hand what this cancer is like and also how hard people are working in the medical profession to help beat it.
“All the money I raise will go to help children fighting the disease at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, where ground-breaking research is taking place.”
Although this will be Mark’s first marathon, he has undertaken a number of other challenges for charity.
He added, “Over the past few years I’ve climbed Ben Nevis, abseiled and even bungee jumped to raise money for good causes but the London Marathon was something I’d wanted to do since I was young.
“It took me three years to get a place so I want to give it a good shot. I gave up smoking as soon as I got my place and haven’t touched a cigarette since.
“Eight months ago I could only manage one or two miles without feeling tired but now I’m OK at mile 15.”
His efforts were nearly ruined when he went over on his ankle during the Sport Relief Mile last month, fracturing his heel.
Doctors warned he would have to keep off his feet to allow the bones to heal.
Mark added, “It was touch and go … I thought my dreams were going to be shattered but I’m back running again with only a bit of throbbing.
“I’m getting really excited now but I’m also nervous. It’s going to be tough.”
It will also be Mark’s first trip out of Scotland.
“I’d never felt the need to go to other countries on holiday but this should be pretty memorable,” he said
Leukaemia claims the lives of one in five children diagnosed in the UK.
Anyone wishing to help Mark reach his total can go to www.virginmoneygiving.com/markanderson