Luke's Double Running Challenge

This year, Luke ran both the Sheffield and Leeds Half Marathon in memory of his dad, Stephen, who unfortunately passed away after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

Luke has overcome his own challenges to take part in the race, suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since his diagnosis at the age of 13. There were times when Luke could not walk due to exhaustion.

It was the passing of his father that made him realise that he needed to make a change, and thus began his fitness journey.

Now a personal trainer and completing two half marathons in the space of a few months, it is a far cry from who he was before.

He is running to raise money for St Luke's Hospice, a partner charity of the Sheffield Half Marathon, after his dad was admitted following his cancer diagnosis.

"During this emotional and life changing period, both my dad and wider family found great comfort and support from the staff and facility that St Luke's Hospice offered...Not only did they make sure my dad had everything he needed, but they also ran support groups for family members in order to come to terms with the situation they were facing."

He credits the hospice with providing the family with a celebration that they would all remember on Stephen's final Christmas.

"My dad was laid in his bed that morning, and was awoken by Father Christmas - one of the volunteers had come in dressed head-to-toe as Santa, giving each patient the biggest hamper of toiletries and goodies you could imagine.

"The kindness and generosity of volunteers made my dad's last Christmas and allowed us to find peace."