On 21 April 2024, Telford-based Dan Braddock will run the TCS London Marathon in support of Horatio’s Garden.
Dan was inspired to take part in the marathon by his father, who has a personal connection with the charity. After experiencing a spinal injury, Dan’s father spent almost a year rehabilitating in the world-renowned Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic, where he and his family first discovered Horatio’s Garden.
With visiting limited by lockdown restrictions, the garden was an immense source of support not only for Dan’s dad, but for his mum too.
Sharing his story, Dan said: “My dad’s experience at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital came during the pandemic and was a really difficult time for us all. Having the outdoor space to spend quality time with my mum was a real blessing. They both love gardening and it was amazing that they were able to enjoy Horatio’s Garden together.
“Both my mum and my dad have completed the London Marathon, dad in 1990 and mum in 2011. I feel so fortunate to have a place in this year’s race and when it came to choosing a charity, Horatio’s Garden was at the top of my list.”
Dan’s desire to participate was reinforced following his own recent stay in the Cardiology ward at Royal Wolverhampton Hospital.
Reflecting on his experience, Dan said: “For almost a week and a half I had no access to the outside world. The staff were wonderful, but it is not an experience I would like to repeat. It brought into sharp focus what somebody like my dad experienced.
“Since recovering, I am back training for the marathon. I live in Telford, so I am lucky to be able to make the most of the town’s award-winning park. I love being close to nature and since my dad’s spinal injury I’ve realised how difficult it can be for people in wheelchairs to experience that same feeling.
“Horatio’s Garden gives people the chance to feel close to nature and I am delighted to be taking on this iconic event in support of the charity. I hope it will give some respite to those who are hospitalised at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital.”
Dan is also an Ambassador for the Horatio’s Garden Spring Forward Challenge, which encourages people to set a personal movement goal and get active during the month of April. Discussing his support for the challenge, Dan said: “Spring is a time when the world comes back to life. It’s also a great time to get out and be active. Everyone has their own thing. For some it’s walking, others may enjoy an adventure on two wheels, or for some it’s an opportunity to get out and run. Whatever your choice, please consider raising money for Horatio’s Garden as part of their Spring Forward Challenge.”
We are so grateful to Dan for sharing his story with us, and for choosing to run the TCS London Marathon in support of Horatio’s Garden. To donate to Dan’s fundraising page, click here.
Dan was recently interviewed about his fundraising jouney on BBC Radio Shropshire. To listen, click here and head to 2h 21m 45s.
