Leodhais Macpherson runs equivalent of Newcastle to New York for late brother Conor, raising money for charity.
Leodhais is 24 years old. He plans to run 3,332 miles by June 2, which is like running from Newcastle to New York! His brother Conor’s birthday is June 2.
Conor died in 2018 at the age of 21, taking his own life. Lifeboats searched the water for him for over four hours. Two helicopters joined the search, and coastguard teams helped on land. They never found Conor.
Leodhais works for EDF Energy and wanted to honor his brother. The marathon idea began last September. He said his brother’s mental health was hidden, and he never saw it coming.
Conor loved New York City and wanted to live there. He studied computer science, hoping for a job in New York. Leodhais chose New York as his goal distance, and the 128 marathons match that distance, starting on January 25 to make the last run on Conor’s birthday.
Money raised helps two charities: the RNLI and If U Care Share. They aided the family after Conor’s death. Leodhais said his family worried at first, but he’s now on day 13.
His family initially thought he was crazy, but his mom now supports him and sees his strength. His dad is a runner too.
Leodhais has always been a runner, but he still trained for this challenge. He runs marathons morning and evening. Weekdays take four to four-and-a-half hours.
The first week went well, but he’s struggling this week, the second. Others warned him it would be hard. He is trying to keep going.
The local community gives support, and he’s raised over £7,000 already, aiming for £10,000. People are running with him and businesses give massages and pedicures.
People greet him during runs, wishing him good luck. The community is very generous, and Leodhais is blown away by their support.
People join him on his runs often, exploring North Tyneside together. He makes up the route as he goes and likes running by the coast.
Tynemouth RNLI is amazed by him. James Waters searched for Conor in 2018 during hard conditions with big waves. They tried their best to find him.
James was on the volunteer crew. He said it was a difficult day. Leodhais’ challenge supports great and deserving charities.
If U Care Share finds Leodhais superhuman. Every person at If U Care Share supports him. They admire his determination. His work will save lives, support communities and prevent suicide.
