A man from South Downes is gearing up to participate in the London Marathon, dedicating his run to his mother, Margaret, who devoted her life to charitable causes and had a personal link to Macmillan Cancer Support founder, Douglas Macmillan.
Andrew Foyle, 53, revealed that his decision to tackle the 26.2-mile challenge was motivated by his mother’s legacy. Margaret, a lifelong fundraiser and the great-niece of Douglas Macmillan, passed away in December 2023 at the age of 93.
The family’s ties to the Macmillan name run deep. Margaret née Macmillan grew up near Douglas in Somerset, and had the honor of hosting him as a guest at her wedding in 1961 at King Weston Church.
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“Douglas Macmillan was my mum’s great uncle, and they lived near each other in Somerset. I’ve discovered he even came to my parents' wedding… he features prominently in the wedding pictures,” Andrew shared.
Inspired by Douglas, Margaret dedicated her life to fundraising for Macmillan and was actively involved with St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Chichester, in addition to a busy career in personnel. Andrew recalled fond memories of his mother organizing Macmillan Coffee Mornings and involving the family in various fundraising activities.
Expressing the significance of the marathon, Andrew remarked, “I wanted to do something different, something extra special for my mum, something I’d never attempted before, and the marathon seemed like the perfect choice.”
Andrew, an only child like his mother, and his son Freddie, discussed the lasting impact of Margaret’s passing on their tight-knit family. His 92-year-old father, Michael, deeply affected by the loss, will be supporting Andrew from home, while his wife Susan and son Freddie will be present on the day of the marathon.
Eager to honor his family’s legacy, Andrew emphasized the importance of commemorating his mother’s life and the family’s connection with Macmillan, given the limited number of remaining Macmillan descendants.
With few descendants in the Macmillan family, Andrew stressed the need to celebrate his mother’s life and maintain the family’s proud association with Macmillan while highlighting the important link to ‘Great Uncle Douglas’.
Harleigh Lawrinson-Chettoe, challenge events program manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, expressed gratitude towards Andrew for running the marathon and commended the family’s enduring commitment to supporting those affected by cancer.
Grateful for the support from runners, volunteers, and supporters, Lawrinson-Chettoe emphasized Macmillan’s mission to provide the best care for individuals affected by cancer.
For information, support, or to speak with someone, call 0808 808 00 00 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk.