Yoni's Big Half Marathon In Memory of Andy Sarsby

I have made the ambitious decision to run a half marathon in honour and loving memory of my dear friend, spiritual brother and legend Andy Sarsby, and at the same time, raise money for The Andy Sarsby Charity. We grew up together, lived 5 minutes from each other, almost got mugged together a few times!... And his loss has had a huge impact of my and so many others.

I am taking part in The Big Half Marathon in London on the 1st of September 2024, the day after my 33rd birthday so I will be on my best behaviour and do my first sober birthday in 17 years all in the name of an amazing cause!

21.0975 km or 13.1094 miles are distances I only associated with driving so I am hoping the lack of cartilage in both my knees hold out. 

I ran about 60km in total between Jan and Feb. Then a handful of 5ks between April - June, and picked up my training properly in July. As of 14th Aug I ran the furthest distance ever of about 14k.

Enough about me and more about my amazing charity of choice below:

The Andy Sarsby Charity was set up in memory of Andy by his incredible family and friends to continue the work he did whilst he was with us. I'm very proud and grateful to support the charity and raise funds for them. The Charity has already done SO much:

• Provided services to cancer patients to bring some level of normality to their lives,

• Funded exercise bikes for Cancer patients to aid their recovery and reduce muscle loss during their treatment - supported by clinicians and research

• Funded VR goggle for patients to act as a distraction during painful procedures and have a bit of fun in the wards

• Provided Tablets for patients so they can remain connected to their loved ones and lives during their treatment.

• They have supported other homelessness charities to access vital essentials such as toothpaste and deodorant etc at trade prices so that donations go further than ever and help more people. 

• They work with hospitals nationwide and provide lollipops for cancer patients to remove the awful taste of treatment

• Provided haircuts and other treatments for the homeless so they can regain their confidence

• Funds raised will be used to continue this great work

It's cliche to say but Andy really was the most fun, optimistic and easy going person who saw so many of the positives in tough situations. He loved life and lived for every minute and wasted so little time and I just need to think of him to help ground myself during difficult moments. The world has not been the same the last 4 years and 9 months and he is missed more than anything but I am so grateful for the time we got to spend and the lessons and wisdom I learned from him. 

I want to thank you personally if you’ve made it this far into my description. Any donation however big or small is most welcome. If you happen to not be doing much on the day and want to get fresh air, go for a stroll, cheer on a load of people or release some emotions, the event starts at roughly 9am on the Sunday morning in-between Tower Hill and Shadwell and will finish in Greenwich. I would love to see you there! 

Sending you love and good energy XXX