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London marathon runners from Medway running for charities

Additional reporting by Sarah Boast and Rachel Dixon

A young boy’s wish to relax in his own sensory room at home could come true thanks to the kindness of a stranger.

Zak Weet has an undiagnosed genetic condition which causes seizures, hearing and vision loss as well as difficulties with movement and coordination.

The seven-year-old enjoys spending time in the sensory area at his school, Abbey Court in Rainham, and could soon get one at his Rochester home.

Zak Weet with his mother Bridget and marathon runner Brian Johnson
Zak Weet with his mother Bridget and marathon runner Brian Johnson

His wish will be granted by Brian Johnson who is running the London marathon for Starlight, a charity that raises money for disabled children.

The 49-year-old dad of two from Wainscott said: “I chose Starlight because I thought it would be a good opportunity to create some memories for families.”

Brian found our about Zak through Facebook. He added: “It made it really real for me and it’s inspiring me to obtain his goal of getting him his wish.”

And as Zak is a big Toy Story fan, his mum Bridget Weet, 28, is eager for the charity to incorporate Woody and Buzz into the design.

She said: “It’ll be life changing for Zak. It will be nice for him to have somewhere to relax and chill out.”

Brian has already raised more than £2,400 with the help of his colleagues at EDF Energy, his family and his football team.

Rebecca Oladele with her nine-month-old son Joshua
Rebecca Oladele with her nine-month-old son Joshua

Also taking part in the 26.2 mile race on Sunday will be personal trainer Rebecca Oladele who had her fourth son, Joshua, in July and she is excited to be able to run the UK’s best-known marathon after such a quick turn-around.

Rebecca, 40, said: “It has always been on my bucket list, having just had a baby made it even more of a challenge.

“I wanted to inspire my children, and women everywhere to chase their dreams regardless of the obstacles and limitations.”

She is running for the NSPCC, the official London Marathon charity, durings its 30th anniversary year.

Adrian Last is running for Phab Kids
Adrian Last is running for Phab Kids

Back in 2000, Adrian Last walked out of the front door of his flat to watch the London Marathon, and decided he wanted to take part.

After a lot of unsuccessful ballot applications, 16 years later he his finally taking part in the race.

The 42-year-old who now lives in Rainham and works for ITV, said: “I was blown away with the atmosphere, the effort and the clear determination of so many people.

“Last year my brother ran the Marathon for Phab Kids, and at that time I looked at all the excellent work they do, so I’m running for this charity.

Marie Debont-Booth, who ran memory of her nephew
Marie Debont-Booth, who ran memory of her nephew

Marie Debont-Booth will be running in memory of her nephew Lee who died of liver cancer in March.

After Lee was diagnosed last year Marie teamed up with the charity Core to raise money for sufferers of digestive diseases.

Marie, 46, of Sturdee Avenue, Gillingham, said: “As a family, we have decided to turn around the sadness of what happened into something positive.”

Her main aim is to increase awareness of a less well-known form of the illness. This is Marie’s first marathon, the furthest she’s run before is 10km.She hopes to raise £2,000 and so far has just moved past £1,801.

Are you running the marathon on Sunday? Email medwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk and let us know how you got on.

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