A woman who "hated" running is set to take on the London Marathon in memory of her late father.
Natalie Hartstone, from Radlett, is preparing to run in the TCS London Marathon in honour of her father, Jeremy, who passed away from a brain tumour in 2019.
The 35-year-old actress, who helps with admin in her family retail business, is using her ballot place to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research.
Having never run more than six miles before signing up for the April 27 marathon, Natalie is determined to complete the 26.2-mile race.
"I came last at every sport, but especially running and cross-country.
"I’ve had to contend with chronic fatigue and broken bones which adds to a list of reasons why this seems crazy to myself and those who know me."
Jeremy, a business owner, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in June 2017, after a sudden change in his speech.
Natalie said: "He wanted to throw everything he could at getting better and held onto a belief that he was going to be one of the people who survive the disease.
"Sadly, that wasn’t his fate."
Since Jeremy's death, the family has participated in several fundraising events, including Wear A Hat Day and 10K Steps A Day in February.
Natalie will be among the 100 runners supporting Brain Tumour Research, whose aim is to find a cure for all types of brain tumours.
"If Dad were alive, I know he’d be telling everyone he meets that his daughter is running the London Marathon."
Carol Robertson, national events manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: "Natalie’s enthusiasm and resolve in supporting the cause is abundantly clear.
"We’re grateful for Natalie’s support in changing this for future patients and wish her the best of luck on race day later this month."
Donations to Natalie’s marathon challenge can be made through the London Marathon Enthuse website.
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