Ian, from Chester le Street, is set to run the Great North Run this Sunday. Here is his story and why he is running for Sands. 

I usually raise money for Cancer Research UK because my wife is a cancer survivor, but this year I have made an exception.

A few weeks ago our second grandson should have been born however, earlier this year, scans and tests showed that there were serious structural abnormalities with him and sadly, at only 20 weeks into the pregnancy, my daughter and her husband had to make the agonising decision to terminate. This involved the traumatic experience of a full delivery of a baby that had already ceased living. Although initially filled with trepidation, I accepted the invitation to meet little Elijah a short while after he was born and although the sight of my daughter and son-in-law cradling their lifeless son was heart-breaking, it was an amazing privilege to meet the little boy who despite having problems that meant he could not survive, was absolutely beautiful. I decided at that moment that as he would never have an opportunity to achieve anything in life that I would honour his short existence by achieving something in his name. I have chosen Sands as they have given great support to my daughter and son-in-law. I am hoping the donations raised can be part of Elijah's legacy.

What has been your biggest challenge while training?

My wife and I have done the GNR before and it is something we do together and enjoy training together but this year she has had a lot of illness which has meant she hadn't been able to get out running which has meant I have lacked motivation 

What are you most looking forward to about being part of the Great North Run?

The crowds and the free jammy dodgers!

What is your expected fundraising target?

£200.00

What is your expected finishing time?

2 hours 30

Donations

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ian-gott-1