500for500 - 8 marathons for ME/CFS in 2025

I am running eight marathons in 2025 for my best friend Freddie and for two charities.

Freddie and I met at university in October 2016. Since roughly October 2022, Freddie has been suffering from myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This cruel condition has seen Freddie deteriorate from a healthy 24-year-old to completely bed-bound.

This means that he can handle only minimal stimulation, of any kind. He lies in a dark room, wearing an eye mask and headphones to minimise his exposure to light and sound. He’s barely able to speak.

ME/CFS is a misunderstood, or simply unknown, condition. I am still far from an expert but, as Freddie’s condition has continued and deteriorated, I have learned how devastating it is.

Freddie is now able to have very brief, whispered conversations with his parents. That is it. What Freddie is suffering is tragic and horrendous. I was able to visit Freddie in January 2024, just before I moved to Sydney. We had four three-minute conversations.

Inspired by Freddie and his family, I would like to do what I can to raise awareness for ME/CFS. In 2025, I am going to run eight marathons: one in each Australian state and territory. I will be raising funds for the ME Association (in the UK) and ME/CFS Australia.

If anyone would be so kind as to donate, I would be extremely grateful. Your money will go towards an amazing cause and towards improving the lives of the shockingly huge numbers of people suffering with ME/CFS.

Thank you. Freddie, I miss you.

Last edited: 11 January, 2025