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.
Essex resident Nir Barak, 43, is fundraising for Anthony Nolan after he donated his bone marrow to a child who needed a lifesaving transplant a year ago.
Why are you running the marathon for Anthony Nolan?
I donated stem cells (or bone marrow) on the 21st April 2012, the day after the Virgin London Marathon 2012. After speaking to the team at Anthony Nolan, I decided that I would like to run the marathon in 2013 in order to raise money for the charity. The day of the marathon will be exactly one year since I donated my stem cells.
What does this marathon mean to you?
For me, it’s the completion of a cycle. From being a stem cell donor to becoming a contributor and helping to get more potential donors onto the register.
What’s the funniest thing that has ever happened to you when running?
Realising after 20 years that I am actually able to run!
If you could overtake a celebrity, who would it be and why?
Tom Hanks for his role as an endless runner in Forest Gump.
What will be the first thing you will do when you finish the race?
Kiss my wonderful wife who has been so supportive of my training.
What would you say to someone thinking of doing a challenge event for Anthony Nolan?
Do not hesitate to sign up. Set yourself new challenge every year while you are able to.
Supporters can sponsor Nir at http://www.justgiving.com/Nir-Barak2
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 start allocating our places on Friday 26 April 2013, so make sure you get your application in soon.
If you have any questions about the Virgin London Marathon, or about any of the other fundraising events we have on offer, drop us a line on 0303 303 3000 or email events@anthonynolan.org and we will be happy to help.