Going the extra mile: Man who ‘can’t run’ set to complete fifth marathon in a month for baby loss charity

HUGE EFFORT: Liam Foster

By Simon Bristow

A man who says he’s “not a runner” may have to reappraise himself on Sunday when he completes his fifth marathon in a month in support of the baby loss charity, Sands.

Throughout January, Liam Foster, 32, has run the equivalent of a marathon a week, raising vital funds for Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, which operates across the UK.

He will conclude his 131-mile challenge this weekend with a final slog around Hull and the East Riding, starting and ending in his home village of Sproatley. Liam hopes this last effort will encourage more people to support him, having already nearly doubled his initial fundraising target of £500 since setting off on New Year’s Day.

Liam said his running was inspired by the tragedy of baby loss, which several of his closest friends and family have experienced in recent years. His aim is to “raise funds to help continue Sands’ phenomenal work, providing a range of support for families who are hit with the trauma of baby loss”.

“I’d not made any real preparations for this challenge,” he said. “I got to New Year’s Eve and realised that I should start my year with a really positive challenge. I’m not a runner so I knew this kind of challenge would show people how serious I am about raising money for Sands.”

Each week, Liam has reached the 26.2 mile marathon target, running around different areas of the region. The keen photographer has been taking pictures along the way and posting them on social media, helping to drum up interest and support along the route.

On the third week of the challenge, Liam concluded his run at Hull City’s Tigers Trust Arena; joining Hull & East Yorkshire Sands United’s football session. Sands United have regional teams who provide comfort and community for those who have been affected by baby loss through the love of football.

Liam had originally planned to complete the equivalent of four marathons but after passing his initial £500 target is now preparing for one last push, hoping to raise more. He has currently raised £909, and you can support him on his on JustGiving page here.

He said: “I have received so many messages through the challenge from people who have been affected by baby loss. It shows just how common this is and how many people require the support of Sands. Hopefully by raising awareness as well as funds, more people will access the charity’s support when needed.”

Liam, a co-founder and director of Awards FC, added: “I’ve been documenting the run through scenic photographs on my social media accounts - this has definitely helped raise engagement and I hope it encourages more people to get outdoors more and explore the beautiful areas around us. I’ve found the whole experience really calming despite the physical challenge.” 

As well as supporting bereaved families, Sands also works in partnership with healthcare professionals by providing a range of training programmes and bereavement care resources to ensure every bereaved parent and family receives the best possible care. They also support and promote research to better understand the causes of baby deaths and save babies’ lives.