This April, Brighterway, the official charity of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (HIOWH), will once again be proudly represented at the TCS London Marathon, as four NHS colleagues take on the iconic 26.2 mile challenge to raise vital funds for the charity.
Among them is Steve, a Basingstoke resident and HIOWH employee, who will be running in support of Brighterway’s work to enhance patient care, improve wellbeing and create better experiences for patients, staff and visitors across Trust services.
Brighterway funds projects that make a real and tangible difference to people’s time in hospital - from improving ward environments to supporting patient comfort and wellbeing. Steve has seen the impact of this work first-hand during his career, having worked on many wards across the Trust.
“I’ve observed patients’ experiences on hospital wards and how Brighterway funding has added to this experience to make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable,” Steve said. “A hospital stay can be scary for some, boring for others, and perhaps lonely for many who have no local relatives or friends to visit them.”
Steve has wanted to run the London Marathon for many years but was unsuccessful in the public ballot, making this opportunity particularly special. He previously completed the Manchester Marathon in 2023, alongside other marathon events in Europe.
Now semi-retired, Steve continues to prioritise fitness as part of his daily routine. Running is his main form of exercise, supported by cycling and swimming, and he trains three times a week.
“Whatever the weather, it doesn’t deter me from getting my running shoes on,” he said. “I generally feel better mentally and physically afterwards, although I often wonder why I’m doing it after a few kilometres.”
Importantly, Steve is dedicating his London Marathon run to his sister, who sadly lost her battle with her mental health in 2025.
Alongside his training, Steve is also enjoying more time with his family, including his four grandchildren, while preparing for one of the world’s most famous endurance events.
By supporting Steve and the Brighterway London Marathon team, supporters will be helping to fund projects that improve hospital environments, enhance patient experiences and support staff wellbeing across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
You can donate to Steve’s JustGiving page here.
To find out more about Brighterway’s four London Marathon runners, visit the Brightway website.
19 February 2026