My Story

It wasn’t long ago that I really got into running and in the last 8 months running has become a huge part of my life. 

I grew up seeing my dad training on a weekly basis to run his 1-year marathon in Madrid. He is now 70 years old and has run more than 30 marathons during his whole life. More or less, 2 years ago when he broke his ankle, he was told the chances to run again were very low or inexistent. I felt sad and frustrated because I knew running was a big part of his life. It was only in that moment that I really started running and understanding the incredible benefits running has, not only from a physical perspective but also from a mental perspective. I decided I will be running a marathon to honour him. I wanted to make him happy, so I started training...

Months passed by and he recovered quickly and mysteriously he started running again. Last April, we ran together with my sister the half marathon in Madrid. I can assure you; this was one of the happiest days of his life - I could only tell by reading his emotions. This was one of the happiest moments for me as well. It was incredible seeing my mum waiting on the final line cheering everybody up. I could only cry! 

During the time of my training, I was telling people I was running for my dad as he was the person, I took inspiration from initially, but with the time I understood that he wasn't the only reason. Running completely transformed my life; today I feel stronger, healthier, and more confident as a person. I also met someone for a short period of time that inspired me so much and meant a lot to me. It was then when I understood that sometimes we meet people that are not meant to stay forever, and they only come into our lives to teach us something and then leave. Nothing is permanent and everything evolves, and in the end what matters is not the time but how deep and meaningful the connections are.               Not to mention how much Nivi, who is also running the London marathon and supporting a different charity, means to me. She is my best friend in London and we have been training together and supporting each other a lot

The reason why I decided to support Samaritans for my marathon is because mental health is extremely important to me. I have promised myself this year I would run, not only to grow stronger as an individual but also to help others during my journey.                                              

We should all have access to mental health support equally and fight every day, so we can become more open and not being afraid of showing ourselves genuine & vulnerable.

Thank you all for reading through and for helping me raising money for Samaritans. It means the world to me :)

"The distance may seem extraordinary, but remember you have an extraordinary heart " - Long run Living.

Ninito