As we count down to the Virgin London Marathon 2013, we are celebrating the people who are training and fundraising in support of Anthony Nolan.
Andrew McFadyen, 37, became a supporter of Anthony Nolan after the charity found him a bone marrow donor and saved his life. Andrew, an art teacher from Norfolk, has decided to go 26.2 miles further and run a marathon to fundraise for Anthony Nolan.
Why did you decide to run a marathon for Anthony Nolan?
In 2009, I was diagnosed with Aplastic Anaemia and needed a bone marrow transplant to survive. Anthony Nolan found me a perfect match. If it wasn’t for the work of Anthony Nolan, I would not have had the chance to live. I would not have had the chance to be a father to my three young children or to become a teacher.
I am not only grateful, but I am also determined to do what I can to recruit more bone marrow donors and raise money to fund breakthrough research.
What does this marathon mean to you?
This marathon is a chance for me to raise awareness of Anthony Nolan and ask people to join the bone marrow donor register. It also means a chance to do something that three years ago was not possible for me to do.
When I was being treated for my illness, a doctor told me that the road to recovery was a long one. Like my treatment, a marathon is also a long journey; it requires preparation, perseverance and support.
If you could overtake a celebrity, who would it be and why?
Gordon Ramsay. I hear he's fast.
What would you say to someone thinking of running for Anthony Nolan?
Do it. You’ll have a great excuse to tell people how easy it is to join the bone marrow register and how important the work of Anthony Nolan is. It's also a great to do a good thing for charity, and you'll enjoy it.
Anything else to add?
Keep going. Never give up.
Supporters can sponsor Andrew online at www.virginmoneygiving.com/AndrewMcFadyen
Would you like to join our team in 2014?
You can apply now to secure your place in the 2014 Virgin London Marathon by simply filling out this application form. We'll started allocating our marathon places on Friday 26th April, so make sure that you get your application in soon.
If you have any questions about the Virgin London Marathon, or about any of our other challenge events, drop us an email on events@anthonynolan.org or call 0303 303 3000 and we will be happy to help.