Running a single marathon is a monumental achievement. Running 12 marathons in 12 months is something else entirely. But for Matt Roberts, this challenge is about much more than personal endurance – it’s about raising awareness and vital funds for The Brain Tumour Charity and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
Matt’s journey has been one of resilience, dedication, and community and as the headline sponsors, S&G Response are incredibly proud to share his story. Among those standing beside him is his close friend Nick Stone, a director at S&G Response, and Nick’s wife, Rosie Stone. In March, Rosie joined Matt for one of his marathons, pushing her own limits to contribute to the cause. Their efforts have inspired many, and in this blog, they share their experiences, challenges, and the impact this challenge has had on them and those around them.
Why did you decide to take on this challenge?
Matt:
When helping my mum move, I found my dad’s old running diary, and that moment sparked the idea of taking on a running challenge in his memory. I chose to run 12 marathons in 12 months—because committing to something for an entire year makes a bigger impact. It keeps the conversation going, builds awareness, and reflects the endurance needed to fight these diseases.
What can you tell us about the connection you have to these two charities?
Matt:
I lost my dad to a brain tumour, and just months later, my mum was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Not only were we told that my dad’s tumour wasn’t terminal, but it was clear the doctors lacked the knowledge to truly understand its behaviour. Brain tumours are among the deadliest cancers, yet they remain severely underfunded, with limited treatment options and low survival rates.
MND, on the other hand, is a death sentence—most people survive only 2-5 years, cases are rising, and little is known about the disease. Both urgently need more awareness and funding to improve research, develop treatments, and provide better support for patients and families.
That’s why I’m supporting The Brain Tumour Charity, which funds vital research to improve survival rates and treatments, and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), which provides care, support, and advocacy for those affected. Raising awareness can drive change and ensure more resources are allocated.
What is one thing you would like everyone to know about these charities and the important work they do?
Matt:
The Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) has been incredible in supporting my mum through her diagnosis. They helped secure crucial funding for specialist equipment, battled tirelessly to ensure she received the right care, and provided expert advice at every stage. Beyond practical support, they created a sense of community, connecting us with others facing the same challenges. Their dedication has made an overwhelming situation feel more manageable, and I can’t thank them enough for the difference they’ve made.
The Brain Tumour Charity is doing an incredible amount of work to push for more research and treatment.
What has been the most difficult part of this challenge so far, and what has been the most rewarding?
Matt:
Running 12 marathons in 12 months has pushed me to my absolute limits, both physically and mentally. The relentless training—six days a week, through freezing winter mornings, heavy rain, and even snow—has been brutal. Waking up at 5 AM to run for hours, often alone with my thoughts, has tested my resilience in ways I never imagined.
The hardest part isn’t just the pain—it’s the mental battle of staying motivated when exhaustion kicks in. But each marathon reminds me why I’m doing this, and no matter how tough it gets, I keep putting one foot in front of the other.
Rosie:
Definitely trying to stick to the training regime over winter! Running through ice and slush was tough, and I was so fed up with cold, wet feet that I bought waterproof running trainers. They were brilliant—until I wore them in warm, humid Cyprus and realised at the starting line that my feet were already clammy!
The most rewarding part? Personally, thanking every single sponsor. Seeing the number of people who supported us was overwhelming. Running with Matt and the team in Paphos was also a privilege—I felt lucky to be healthy enough to take on the challenge.
How did you support each other through the preparation of this challenge?
Matt:
Rosie is nothing short of incredible. She had never run long distances before, and after an old injury, has a leg filled with metal—yet she never hesitated. She didn’t need motivation or time to think; she just said, “I’ll do one with you.”
Rosie:
We’ve shared Strava runs, training videos, nutrition advice, and plenty of GIFs ridiculing each other! Matt’s wife, Vicky, was the glue that held everything together. Nobody backed out, nobody said “I can’t do this”—we were all in, every step of the way.
Why was it important for you to join Matt on his challenge?
Rosie:
Matt’s determination is incredible, and I wanted to support him in any way I could. A half marathon for me was a huge challenge, but one I felt was doable with the right training.
Watching loved ones deteriorate from diseases with no cure is unbearable. If our fundraising can help future generations, then every mile was worth it.
How has the support you have received made you feel?
Rosie:
I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of family, friends, and clients. I received more donations than I ever imagined.
People knew I wasn’t a runner—many probably wondered if I could even do this! But their support kept me going. When I was struggling in the heat, and my Spotify playlist failed, I thought about every sponsor who had donated. I refused to walk a single step, and I’m incredibly proud of that.
Matt:
Both Rosie and Nick have been by my side in ways I can’t even begin to repay. True friendship isn’t just about being there in easy times—it’s about showing up when things are tough, and they have done that time and time again.
What does it mean to you to see the people closest to you complete such an impressive challenge?
Nick:
It was amazing to witness. I know how much time and effort it takes to train for something like this. Matt is a pro now, but the relentless nature of it—every month—is incredibly impressive. He is doing something special for a cause that means so much to him.
Rosie has never enjoyed running, but I knew she would smash it through sheer determination. She trained professionally and stuck to it, even through the brutal winter months.
Getting to FaceTime with Matt’s mum after the race and seeing how happy she was made it all the more special. I’m very proud of them both, and the celebration after was well deserved!
Final Thoughts…
Matt’s 12-marathon challenge is not just a test of endurance but a testament to the power of determination, friendship, and a shared mission to make a difference. With Rosie stepping up to join him and Nick supporting them along the way, this journey has shown the strength of community in the face of adversity.
As the challenge continues, so does their impact – raising awareness, funding research, and inspiring others to take action.
