A heart warming journey as Gabriel learns about his father's inspiring story. After a life-changing brain injury, Daddy discovers a passion for running that leads him to complete ten marathons in nine countries, including the Great Welsh Marathon dedicated to Gabriel. This story highlights the importance of perseverance, love, and the joy of overcoming challenges together. Lace up your sneakers and run alongside Daddy and Gabriel on their adventure!


Gabriel and the Running Daddy

Gabriel surrounded by his toys with a book in his hand 

In a town where the sun painted skies oh-so-blue, Lived a boy named Gabriel, with a heart brave and true.

A Brave Heart in a Blue Sky Town

Gabriel thinking about his daddy (Daddy in a thought bubble looking like a hero)

 But this tale isn’t just about little Gabe, It’s about his dear Daddy, a hero so brave!.

Once upon a time, in two thousand and twelve, Daddy faced troubles no one could shelve.

The Great Scare of 2012 

 A bump on the head, oh what a great scare! It shook up his world, left him gasping for air.

daddy waking up in a hospital bed looking lost and confused

He woke up one morning, feeling quite lost, His memories scattered, like leaves in the frost.

Lost Memories and New Beginnings

Daddy sitting in a hospital room, looking confused but with a determined expression. Illustrate a thought bubble with scattered memories (like a bicycle, sneakers, and dancing)

 “Can I tie up my shoes? Can I ride on my bike? Can I run, dance, or even just hike?”.

With a heart full of courage, he stood up tall, “I’ll learn everything again, I’ll conquer it all!” So he practised and stumbled, with patience and grace, Determined to find his old, happy place.

Courage and Determination

Daddy running through scenic environment (side profile)

But Daddy found something, a spark in his soul, A passion for running, it made him feel whole.

A Passion for Running

Daddy running through a park with his back to us

 With each step he took, his spirit soared high, Like a bird in the sky, he could almost fly!.

His very first marathon was London, oh wow! He ran with a smile, and he took his vow.

The Marathon Journey Begins

Daddy running in Dublin marathon with mummy cycling in the background

 From there he ran far, with dreams in his heart, Through marathons in cities, he played his part.

Daddy racing with iconic images from Paris, Rome and Berlin in the background and wearing a red vest with the name 'Alan' on it and the bib number 1

He raced in Paris, where the Eiffel tower stood tall, And Brighton’s coastal path, he loved them all! In Valencia, Rome, and Edinburgh, he’d glide, In Berlin and Dublin, he conquered with pride.

Conquering Cities and Dreams

marathon runners against a seaside backdrop and hills in the background

Then came number nine, the Great Welsh Marathon, In a land full of beauty, where dreams could be drawn.

The Great Welsh Marathon

Daddy running the 'Great Welsh Marathon' in a red vest with his name on it (ALAN) and the number 1

 “I’ll run for my child, who’ll be half Welsh, you see, A future little star, as bright as can be!”.

With Mummy cheering loudly, they travelled afar, To the Great Welsh Marathon, where dreams are the star.

A Family's Support

Daddy wearing a red vest with 'Alan' on it and the number 1, running in the welsh hills with welsh flags in the background

 Daddy raced through the hills, with the wind at his back, Each step a reminder of how far he’d come back.

Daddy running through different countries wearing his running gear (show landmarks for Berlin, Rome, London, Dublin)

Ten marathons later, in nine countries he flew, With the spirit of Gabriel, he always pushed through.

A Legacy of Perseverance

Daddy running in Lisbon Marathon near the beach

 In Lisbon, too, he felt joy in his heart, Each race was a journey, a wonderful start.

Daddy kneeling down to talk to Gabriel, surrounded by trophies and medals. Show Daddy smiling warmly as he shares his wisdom, with a soft glow around them

“Remember, dear Gabriel,” he’d tell you one day, “When life throws you challenges, don’t run away.

Lessons for Gabriel

Daddy and Gabriel walking and talking holding hands

 With perseverance and love, and a heart open wide, You can overcome anything, just take it in stride.”.

Gabriel and mummy cheering daddy on as he runs through the marathon finish line 

So here’s to your Daddy, the runner so brave, With each race he runs, he teaches and paves.

A Hero's Path

gabriel watching his daddy run through the window, looking on with love and pride

 A path for you, Gabriel, to shine and to grow, With a heart full of dreams, let your courage flow!.

daddy and gabriel tying up their matching sneakers ready for a run together

In the town where the sun painted skies oh-so-blue, Lives a boy named Gabriel, with a hero in view.

Running Together

 So lace up your trainers, let’s run side by side, With Daddy as your guide, let’s enjoy this great ride!.