John Garnett, Callum Arthurs, Greg Mannion and Jake Wyatt
are four incredible people who took on the London Marathon 2026 to raise funds for NMC. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to John, Callum, Greg and Jake for their momentous efforts, and to everyone that supported them – we think you’re amazing!
Each runner has a personal connection to NMC and reasons for choosing us to run for – here are their stories:
John Garnett
In March 2024, I was diagnosed with Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM), a debilitating and degenerative muscle-wasting condition with no known cure. Throughout my life, I have been extremely active and always loved the outdoors – completing all the Wainwrights in the Lakes, playing rugby, skiing, fell racing, ultras, golfing, and enjoying fantastic walks. I have been incredibly fortunate to attend NMC since 2025 and will continue to do so for the rest of my life. When I was granted a place to take part in the London Marathon on April 26, 2026, I felt both overjoyed and extremely nervous. This is probably my life’s greatest challenge; my ability to move and maintain strength has seriously declined.
However, I keep reminding myself that it’s what I can do now that truly matters. With the support of the Neuromuscular Centre, I am determined to stay as fit and mobile for as long as humanly possible.
Callum Arthurs
My desire to run for the NeuroMuscular Centre is, fundamentally, deeply personal. One of my closest friends suffers from a muscle-wasting neuromuscular condition, and she will be foremost in my mind as I train and run. When we met, and for several years after, her symptoms were not yet manifest, and I was unaware of her condition through this period. Since then, of course, I have seen her symptoms appear and gradually worsen. But I have also seen the enormous benefits – physical and emotional – the Centre has offered her. From otherwise financially inaccessible specialised physio and gym sessions, to guidance on home improvements, lifestyle transition, and activities and excursions, I know how important the Centre has been in her ongoing process of adjustment to her condition.
Moreover, I have seen the value the Centre has provided as a point of emotional and psychological comfort and community as she navigates anxieties about periods of deterioration and the longer-term future. Having attended the Centre’s quiz night fundraiser, I was struck not only by the kindness and dedication of the team, but also by the positivity of so many people in the face of their obstacles.
In this respect, I am amazed and inspired by my friend every day for her continued positivity and for the full life she leads as a huge fan of live sport and music, not to mention a very successful professional, and I know that NMC has played an important part in this. I am so grateful that my friend has access to the facilities, support, encouragement, and community of the Centre, and it would be a privilege to run for such a wonderful cause, not only for her, but for the countless people NMC helps.
Greg Mannion
Some people run marathons for the challenge. I’m running this one because the Neuromuscular Centre has changed the lives of two people I love.
My wife and my sister‑in‑law both live with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive condition that slowly takes away mobility and independence. It’s something you can’t train your way out of, can’t fight with willpower alone, and can’t ignore. But what you can do is surround yourself with people who understand — and that’s exactly what NMC provides
The NMC has become more than a support service. It’s a lifeline. A community.
A place where people with neuromuscular conditions can access physiotherapy, specialist gym equipment, emotional support, employment opportunities, and — maybe most importantly — a sense of belonging. I’ve seen firsthand how much strength, confidence, and independence the NMC gives to my family. And I want to give something back.
Jake Wyatt
As part of the Physio team at NMC, I believe this is a great opportunity to raise significant funds for a charity who takes care and pride in delivering amazing physiotherapy treatments to patients with muscular dystrophy. I thrive by helping others and those around me, therefore, my motivation is to contributing to providing NMC with the funds to assist patients and hopefully encourage someone’s quality of life.