Fleetwood man set to run virtual marathon following heart surgery

Gary Parkinson, 46, had heart valve replacement surgery in 2017 following a car accident on his way home from triathlon training.

Eager to test his limits after his rehabilitation, he decided to take on the challenge of running a marathon for his local NHS charity, Blue Skies Hospitals Fund.

Gary, of Highgate, says the famous feat has been a lifelong dream of his, amongst a few other motivating factors.

He said: “I’m doing the marathon for a few reasons: to raise money for Blue Skies and thank the hospital for their hard work and dedication, to prove that anything is possible after heart surgery, and because I’m slightly mad!

"I'll be having a couple of pints at the end of it."

Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic the London Marathon has been changed to a virtual event, meaning Gary will now complete the 26 miles along the promenade

from Fleetwood to Blackpool and back.

Not only will he be supported by his friends and family in his bubble, but his employers, GAP Hire Solutions, are match-funding his donations up to £750.

Gary has been supported by wife Nicola, who helped him get his fitness back after the surgery, and Max the dog.

When Gary and a handful of fellow runners have finished the run, they will be popping into the North Euston for those well earned drinks.

Gary added: "I just want to thank the North Euston for setting aside a special part of the bar afterwards - they didn't have to do that."

To donate to Gary’s fundraising, visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/thegazparky