#Team THS London Marathon ’25 – Luke’s story

Written by Sam Wilson, April 14, 2025

Luke will run the London Marathon on 27 April in memory of his much-missed dad, Richard, and in support of families who live with a bleeding disorder. 

Luke was only 11 years old when Richard died, but his dad’s influence continues to be a positive force in his life. 

‘I didn’t have a long time with him, but I have a strong sense of him in my life,’ said Luke. ‘Dad was an incredibly positive and loved person.’ 

Richard, who had haemophilia, loved sport and enjoyed playing football and cricket. He encouraged Luke to get involved too.  

Luke, who is now 29, said: ‘Sport was a massive part of his life. He used to play for his company’s cricket team and took me along to join in, even though all the other players were adults. He always inspired me with my own sports and he is the reason I’m in a position to attempt a marathon today.’ 

For Luke, choosing to run to raise money for the Haemophilia Society was a no-brainer. 

He said: ‘The Haemophilia Society has been a part of my family’s life for decades. I remember going to conferences with my parents and getting to go on fun activities with the other children while the adults were listening to the important stuff. My dad was infected with hepatitis C and my family really appreciated the support the charity gave and the information it’s still providing about the infected blood scandal.’ 

For Luke’s family, haemophilia is not a direct part of their lives anymore, but he feels an affinity for others going through a bleeding disorder diagnosis and learning to live with the condition. 

He said: ‘Being part of THS’s London Marathon team and hearing about why others are running has emphasised what a vitally important role the charity plays for families. Bleeding disorders can still come into a family’s life seemingly out of nowhere and people need THS to help them through it.’ 

Luke only took up running a few years ago and, although he completed a half marathon event last year, this will be his first full marathon. We’ll be there to cheer for you on race day, Luke! Good luck! 

Show Luke your support by donating here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/luke-spill-1724166773163