Iain's Half Marathon Run In Memory Of Steve

Just over a year ago my father-in-law, Steve Minogue, had a catastrophic stroke and a few weeks later died.

He was a much loved father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

However, Steve was not alone in that about 8000 New Zealanders a year suffer a stroke, of which about a third are fatal. Globally, millions are affected and die each year. Yet strokes are largely preventable.

And Steve is not the only person close to me who has suffered a stroke. Back home in the UK, in March 2014, a close friend had a catastrophic stroke and died 24 hours later. And in July 1990, my own father had a stroke, which whilst not fatal, has had a long term impact.

Consequently, it's fair to say that finding ways of raising awareness, preventing, and treating strokes is close to my heart.

And so, having moved to NZ in Dec 2018, and having found a bit more time on my hands than I thought I would, I've been doing a bit of running and thinking about Steve a lot (as my family and I currently live in the house he used to live in and use the car he used to drive). After much thought, I've finally plucked up the courage to sign up for the Wellington Half Marathon on 30 June, and it only seemed right to try and raise some money for a good cause at the same time (and also have something to motivate me to get across the finishing line!).

Whilst I've done 2 half marathons before (one in 2011 and one in 2017), this time I've found my body complaining a bit more now that I'm on the wrong side of 40! However, I know that a couple of hours of physical and mental pain are nothing compared to what Steve endured during the last few weeks of his life.

As you are able, any donations would be gratefully received.

Many thanks,

Iain