Miles for a memory: Natasha runs for her grandad
This weekend, Natasha will take on her very first full marathon at the Sydney Marathon. But for her, it’s about more than crossing the finish line—she’s running in memory of her late grandad, who lived with Huntington’s disease.
A runner for just two and a half years, Natasha has already completed several half marathons and even a 20-mile race in England. But this is her very first full marathon.
The Sydney Marathon is also making history this year, becoming part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, making Natasha’s achievement all the more special.
“I hadn’t really exercised before I started running. Training for this has changed me. I feel more disciplined and I’m enjoying it more than ever.”
Alongside her training, Natasha has been raising funds for Huntington’s Australia, already surpassing $1,000, running for a cause close to her heart.
“My grandad had Huntington’s, and I have cousins and uncles with the disease. It’s something that has always been close to my heart. I feel lucky that my dad tested negative, but seeing others in my family test positive makes me want to do what I can.”
The generosity of supporters has truly surprised Natasha. In the past, she found it difficult to reach her fundraising goals, but this time donations came in from people she didn’t even know well. Knowing that so many care about Huntington’s disease has been deeply moving and motivating for her.
Beyond marathon day, Natasha is also a PhD student researching sleep disturbances in Huntington’s disease. Her hope is that better understanding of sleep could improve quality of life and even open doors to new treatment pathways.
“Research is important to me, but so is making sure families feel supported.”
On Sunday, Natasha admits she’s excited to see her family and friends support her but nervous about tackling the final hill at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Through it all, she’ll be thinking of her grandad.
“I often wonder what he’d say if he were here. I think he’d be proud.”
Every step Natasha takes this Sunday honors her grandad and supports families impacted by Huntington’s disease. Join her journey and donate to her fundraiser.
