Stacey’s London Marathon ’23, for Pearse

Stacey’s London marathon run, inspired by Pearse:

“I have run London twice before but always enter the ballot in hope that I get in because I love it. The year I had a baby was the first time I got a successful ballot place, typical! But as a keen runner I was keen to take on the challenge of London Marathon 2023.

Being a new mum and going through the anxiety and emotions of what that brings, I could not even comprehend how our cousin Laura was coping with baby Pearse who has myotubular myopathy and had been struggling since birth. She was so strong doing all she could to help her precious boy which ultimately she managed to do when she discovered Myotubular Trust. As soon as I found out I got a ballot place I thought it could be my way to show some support. So with Laura’s approval I dedicated running London for Pearse and raise money for charity who had helped to get diagnosis and provide invaluable support to the family.

So that’s was my motivation Laura and Pearse.

I had only just returned to running doing a maximum of 20-30 minutes as I was so fretful leaving my baby. I knew it maybe difficult implementing the training as a new breastfeeding mum but I was determined.

I brought myself a running buggy so that I could train with my son and not have to rely on others to be able to look after him so I could run. I couldn’t use it though until he was a bit sturdy which began in mid to late December

I then began running more frequently and it not only meant I could get training done but also he seemed to like the motion and would have a nice sleep. Conor is not the best sleeper so it was a win win. But as training progressed it was a lot of team work with my close ones and I would not have been able to do it without the help from my mum and Declan.

As training progressed and got harder at times, I found it particularly tough. To get through this I thought of brave Pearse and his battles and strength which inspired me to stay focused and dedicated. This was often with little sleep but this was nothing in comparison to battles Pearse has contended with or the sleepless nights of his Mummy and Daddy who always remain strong.

I logged my training on social media and Laura would share my statuses and I was overwhelmed with the support I received in fundraising which inspired me even more. Training seemed to be going well so I thought right I’m gonna go for sub 4 hour time. This was my dream for the last 2 marathons I ran but, although close, I never managed it.

The night before the marathon we stayed in London so I would be nearer the start. Conor was a good boy and slept reasonably well but me, I was wired. This would be the first time leaving Conor for so long and as a Mum and one who still breastfeeds I was anxious.

The morning arrived and I got my kit on, I brought a shake with oats to have enroute. I went and had slice of toast with Conor and then I fed him just before leaving. Conor and Declan walked me to the station and I got a wave of emotion and was very tearful thinking of leaving my baby. But I knew he would be fine with his daddy.

Then my marathon journey started. I got a train to Greenwich and chit chatted with fellow runners 🏃🏻‍♀️ I then took the long walk to red start taking in the great atmosphere that was surrounding me already. It started to rain 🌧️ oooh noooo. I Dropped my bag and then ate half a banana and headed to the long queue for the toilets…I always have a nervous poop before (sorry bit too much detail).

Then it was time for my wave, wave 5. I was getting excited now but hoping rain would ease. My wave began the walk up to the start line then there was the count down and we were off. 16 weeks training and now it was time to put training into practise.

The rain was quite heavy for the first few miles and there seemed to be a bit of surface water so my trainers 👟 got wet quickly. I set out at a faster pace than intended but felt good and easy so I stuck with it. No headphones needed as the crowds were electric and music was pumping from flats and on the streets – it was great.

I knew my mum and step sisters were going to be at around mile 7 and be to my right so I ran to that side. This gave me something to look forward to for the first 10k. And I spotted them, such a buzz when you see loved ones. I felt good and was enjoying the freedom of running.

Then back to it – my next focus was Tower Bridge This is when you know you’re nearly half way and running across it is just so epic and breathtaking. I also knew a running friend was around that way too. Again crowds leading up along along the way were fab, London never disappoints. Cutty sark I was singing and waving my arms and even got on TV then over Tower Bridge which was rammed and absolutely fantastic and I still felt grand.

So mile 13ish I spotted my friend – another buzz. I knew my mum and step sister were heading to around mile 16/17 to see me again so I was keeping good pace and looking forward to spotting them again. And I did. I felt good and didn’t need the jelly babies from mum as the gels and supplies I had were working well. I still felt fab.

But not long after my feet were starting to feel sore and I suspected I had blisters because of the wet feet. Canary Wharf was electric though and all the people cheering took focus away. But at mile 19 I felt something burst on my right foot. I was not going to let this defeat me. I was running for the bravest boy who is always so strong. I knew I just needed to mentally block it out and focus.

I knew I was going to see Declan, Conor and family at mile 24 and that was something to look forward to. As I continued running I reached rainbow row which was buzzing, this lifted my spirits and I was waving my arms and singing again.

As I approached Tower Hill I knew I was getting close to my baby and knew I was still on track for sub 4 hours. I finally got to the tunnel I was focused ready to spot them, and before I even got out the tunnel I spotted my brother in law then Declan, Conor, Sister in law and niece and nephew. I was so happy jumping and giving Declan a high five. They were all cheering and I knew by Decs face he knew I was running well and on track for my goal.

With all the excitement of jumping around, my calves not long after started to spasm. I knew if I slowed right down to 10 minute miles I would still do it. So I eased off, I didn’t want to push it and not finish at all. In my head I was like it’s 2 miles that’s less than a Parkrun.

Then all of a sudden I hear my mum! Another buzz to motivate me and it lifts my spirits to encourage me to do it. Now it was only a mile and bit to go. The spasm was easing so I picked up pace. Got through Westminster, another one of my favourite parts, and I reached The Mall, the final stretch. I dug a little deeper to give a strong finish.

Hands in air with sheer joy and pride, I went through the finish line. The it was a wave of emotion and tears came, I not only ran it 10 months postpartum but got around 9 minute pb. I actually achieved my goal sub 4 finishing 3hours 57 mins 50 seconds I was so chuffed.

I got my medal, top and goodies but couldn’t take any pictures or ring anyone as when I got my phone out my hydration vest it had obviously been jiggling in vest and was disabled for 54 minutes

A kind volunteer lady let me use her phone so I could call family to know where to meet them. We agreed letter C for Conor

The walk there was bit of a struggle as my feet were starting to hurt with blisters. But I got there and when I saw my mum I burst into tears as I knew she understood how much getting that time meant and all the work I’d put in. I finally got my finish celebration picture with my step sisters banner and my obligatory jumping post run pose, even if my feet were hurting it was a must.

Then Declan, Conor, friends and family finally arrived. Conor was so overwhelmed seeing me he cried and cried. But we found a ledge on a building that I climbed upon so I could comfortably feed him and enjoy post marathon cuddles. That was the best celebration of all.

I’m not ashamed to say I am super proud of myself and feel like a badass Mumma. I have story to tell both my son, Conor, and Pearse (my inspiration) when they are a bit older the marathon and the money raised to help Myotubular Trust.”