27 – that’s the number that has driven Guardian’s Barry Ahearn through half marathons, an ultra, a BBC award nomination and a visit to the Houses of Parliament – all in memory of his sister Abbie.
27 was the number of minutes Abbie’s brain was without oxygen while paramedics worked to save her, following a cardiac arrest during a seizure in September 2023. She was just three months away from her 30th birthday and only six weeks on from receiving her epilepsy diagnosis. Barry describes her as someone who “brightened any room she walked into” – full of jokes, pranks, and a smile that’s sorely missed by everyone who knew her.
What began as a deeply personal tribute has grown into something remarkable. Barry has completed 27 half marathons, taken on the Epping Forest 50KM ultra, been Highly Commended at the BBC Surrey Make a Difference Awards, attended Epilepsy Action’s 75th anniversary at the House of Lords, met MP Helen Maguire at the Houses of Parliament and appeared on BBC News and BBC Sounds.
Epilepsy Action’s Fundraising Director, Philippa Cartwright, said the charity is “in complete awe” of what Barry has achieved: “His determination and resilience is so inspiring and the money raised in Abbie’s memory will help so many people.”
Now, he’s lacing up again. Barry and his running partner Saski are taking on the TCS London Marathon on 26th April together and collectively, they’ve already raised nearly £23,000 for Epilepsy Action.
Barry explained: Vital funds are needed to support people living with epilepsy. Every little donation helps – and it’s all in memory of my sister Abbie. Thank you in advance for any support you can give.“
If you’d like to support Barry, you can sponsor him on JustGiving, see the link below.
At PTSG, our people do great things inside work and out. Well done Barry what an inspiration.
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