Greg’s Story of Determination, Gratitude and Giving Back
Just a year ago, Greg never imagined he’d be lacing up his trainers again — let alone taking on a 10k in support of The Livewell Foundation.
In August 2025, after completing a long run, Greg was suddenly hit with severe pain in his left foot. What first seemed like a minor setback quickly became something much more challenging. Weeks of rest turned into months of uncertainty, with no clear diagnosis despite multiple appointments.
“It was a bad time,” Greg admits. “I genuinely thought my running days were over.”
Simple, everyday activities became difficult. Walking was a struggle. Even jobs around the house felt like a challenge. For someone who had come to rely on running — not just for fitness, but for managing his lung condition, sarcoidosis — it was a huge blow. But, with support from the podiatry team at Livewell Southwest, things began to change. Expert advice and the right care helped him slowly but surely get back on his feet.
And then came a turning point.
“After seeing podiatry, I was back to steady running within a couple of weeks. Entering the 10k made me realise — I can do this.”
Fast forward to today, and Greg is back running. Not chasing personal bests or podium finishes — but something far more meaningful.
“I’m a slow plodder,” he says. “It’ll be well over the hour mark… but that doesn’t matter. Taking part is the biggest thing for me.”
In fact, Greg’s journey into running didn’t start until just four years ago, at the age of 52. At the time, he weighed over 20 stone and had recently been diagnosed with sarcoidosis. "You can do it. Anything is possible. Start small — even a parkrun. Slow and steady… there’s never any rush.”
Now, Greg is taking on the Plymouth 10k not just for himself, but to give something back.
“Livewell have been amazing at getting my foot repaired. The support I had was excellent. Raising a few pounds is the least I could do.”
Running alongside him is his wife Tracy — in Greg’s words, “a great motivator (even if I can’t quite keep up with her!).” Tracy is taking on the challenge both to support Greg’s recovery and to show her own appreciation for the care he received.
Together, they’re turning a difficult chapter into something incredibly positive — fundraising to support others and “pass it on” to people who might one day need the same help.
As for race day? Greg is keeping his priorities clear: “The finish… and a pasty! I always take a moment after a run… just to be thankful.”
Greg’s story is a powerful reminder that fundraising isn’t about being the fastest or the fittest. It’s about showing up, setting a goal, and making a difference — whatever your pace.
And as Greg and Tracy take on this challenge, we couldn’t be more grateful.
Thank you both for your determination, your positivity, and for choosing to give back to The Livewell Foundation in such a meaningful way.
Feeling inspired?
Whether it’s a 5k, a parkrun, or your own half marathon challenge — you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve. If you're interested in taking on a challenge like Greg's in support of The Livewell Foundation head over the our Livewell Legends page and find out more about our fundraising opportunities.