Alex and Adam from Quayside together with friends/professional contacts Chris, Ben, and Mike, embarked on an incredible adventure—running from London to Paris in a relay over four challenging days.

Beyond our personal goals, our aim was to raise funds and awareness for two exceptional charities, Parkinson's UK and SSAFA. Parkinson's UK are dedicated to supporting individuals living with Parkinson's disease, focuses on research, advocacy, and providing essential resources to improve quality of life. SSAFA, on the other hand, provides lifelong support to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families, covering a wide range of needs, from financial assistance to emotional support. With our spirits high and hearts filled with determination, we set off on a journey that would push us to our limits and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

As we gathered at the starting point amidst the streets of London, anticipation and excitement filled the air. The first leg was Mike’s, and as he began, we all knew that each step would bring us closer to our goal. The support from our friends, families, clients and well-wishers was overwhelming, fuelling our determination to make a lasting impact.

Over the course of the following days, we faced a multitude of challenges. Muscle fatigue and unpredictable hot weather tested our resolve. But we persevered, knowing that the funds we raised would provide support, hope, and comfort to those in need.

On day 3 and 4 the relay continued, the bonds among us grew stronger. Each of us pushed beyond our limits, inspired by the collective effort we were making for Parkinson's UK and SSAFA.  On day 4 Ben faced the official final leg running back in the metropolis but this time on the streets of Paris instead of the countryside we’d been crossing the days before.  With the Eiffel Tower on the horizon, we regrouped a mile from the finish line.  We all knew that our dedication had led us to this remarkable moment. The final stretch was a group run with all 5 of us. As we gathered around the iconic landmark, we celebrated not only our physical achievement but also the impact we hoped we have made on the lives of others.

Our run from London to Paris was about more than just covering the miles; it was about making a difference. By raising over £6,000 for Parkinson's UK and SSAFA, we knew that our efforts would contribute to vital research, provide support to those battling Parkinson's disease, and assist military personnel and their families during challenging times.

We were fortunate to have speakers from the charities on two of the evenings and with that, the journey taught us that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can rise above and make a lasting impact.  For us it reinforced the power of unity, teamwork, and compassion. We all personally feel fortunate that the memories will endure long after our run.

We want to say again a huge thank you to the companies who sponsored a leg and to the individuals who sponsored us too, the donations and well wishes kept us going on some of those tougher miles and without the support of the Gloucestershire community and wider we wouldn’t have made the difference we have done to both Parkinson’s UK and SSAFA.