A RUNNER will tackle the London Marathon for the first time to raise funds for a cause close to home.
Matthew Hatcher, 26, from South Woodham Ferrers, is aiming to raise £2,000 for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).
One of triplets, Matthew’s brother Jamie was diagnosed with the rare, life-threatening liver disease biliary atresia.
Matthew said: “He had to undergo major surgery when he was just two months old, and it was an incredibly difficult time for my parents – as if coping with three new-born babies wasn’t stressful enough.
“But the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation was there from the outset, providing my parents with information and emotional support which continued as Jamie got older.
“I know that they found it comforting to hear from other families who were going through similar experiences.
"The work this charity does, supporting children with all forms of liver disease, is truly remarkable.
“My brother is doing extremely well now. He still has regular check-ups for his liver but is able to lead a full and active life.
“He’s a recruitment consultant and a qualified carpenter. He plays golf regularly and he’s engaged to Marina.”
Matthew said he has always wanted to do the London Marathon and is delighted to be running for CLDF.
He described the marathon as a “great opportunity” to raise funds for a charity which will help other families in the way it helped his own.
Matthew added: “Training was going well until a couple of weeks ago when I was derailed by a chest infection but as the big day draws near, I have to admit I’m really looking forward to it – I can’t wait to be stood at the start line, ready to go.”
Michelle Wilkins, head of services at Children’s Liver Disease Foundation, said: “CLDF is dedicated to fighting all childhood liver diseases by providing information and emotional support, funds for research and a voice for all those affected.
“It’s wonderful to know that Jamie is doing so well and we’re delighted that Matthew has chosen to do the marathon for us.
“What a great way to support other families like his. We hope his first marathon is a wonderful experience and will be there to cheer him on.”
You can support Matthew’s London Marathon challenge at tinyurl.com/yvdct9y7.
For more information on CLDF visit childliverdisease.org.
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