Jackie Griffiths competes in the London Marathon on Sunday in memory of her much-loved son.
Inspired by her son Adam Foulkes, whose grandfather Bill Foulkes played for the legendary Manchester United Busby Babes – Jackie,59, competed in her first half marathon with Adam four years ago in Bath .
After racing in Bath, Jackie persuaded Adam to enter the ballot for the London marathon the following year, but just three months later, he suddenly and unexpectedly died and despite a post-mortem, the coroner found no conclusive cause of death.
Adam was an extremely talented footballer and an avid Manchester United and Forest Green fan. Before his passing he had just completed his finals at Bath University and had returned home to prepare for a summer of travelling in South America with friends, followed by starting a job in London with Ernst & Young.
“Adam never learned the outcome of his final exams, he never got to go to South America or to start his job in London,” Jackie said.
“We all remain in deep shock at the loss of a much loved young man who leaves a huge gap in so many lives.
“Words cannot begin to express the depth of our sadness that his young and promising life was so cruelly snatched away.
“Since then I have wanted to complete the London marathon, because Adam’s short life means he never can.
“This year I will be 60 so I figured it’s now or never. I have been fortunate to secure a charity place for Great Ormond Hospital (GOSH). My training has gone well and I am now starting to believe I can actually go the distance.”
How to support Jackie and Great Ormond Hospital
To support Jackie on her big day you can make a donation to Great Ormond Hospital by clicking HERE
