Two sisters will run the London Marathon this Sunday in honor of their brother, who applied for years but never got the chance to participate before his death. Hayley Adams and her sister Megan are taking on the 26.2-mile race to remember their brother Laurie, who died by suicide in February 2025.
A Dream Deferred
Laurie had always dreamed of running the London Marathon but never secured a place. His sudden death came as a shock to his close-knit family. "It was a massive shock. None of us knew he was struggling. He didn't reach out, and that was the sad thing," Hayley told MyLondon.
The sisters decided to run the marathon in his honor. "He always applied every year and never got one. He was a keen runner and always said he would run the London Marathon one day. Because he never got to do it, we were watching it last year, and I said, 'Why don't we try to run it?'" Hayley explained.
Running for Samaritans
After failing to secure a ballot place, the sisters sought a charity and chose Samaritans, which focuses on suicide prevention. "We knew it had to be the London Marathon because that's what Laurie had always wanted to do," Hayley said. She will wear a ring containing Laurie's ashes and his Apple Watch during the race.
The sisters will run in charity tank tops featuring a photo of Laurie. So far, they have raised £3,127 of their £5,000 target for Samaritans, a charity that provides support to people in crisis through trained volunteers.
First Marathon and Emotional Journey
This will be Hayley and Megan's first marathon. The experience has been eye-opening. "Laurie always used to banter us. He was shy, but once you got to know him, he was probably the loudest person in the room. He would do anything for you," Hayley recalled.
Their family has been supportive, helping with fundraising events. "I think he would be proud of us, but I know his initial reaction would have been to laugh," Hayley added. "I imagine I will cry the whole time I'm running. Having my sister with me will help me cross the finish line, and that will definitely spur us both on."
Spreading Awareness
The sisters hope their efforts will encourage others to seek help. "Since Laurie's passing, we want people to know there are people at the end of the phone who can help. And it may be easier to speak to a stranger than someone that you know," Hayley said. "All the money that goes to help, and if it can help one family avoid what we went through, it's worthwhile."
