Meet our friend of the brand and much-loved instructor, Nia. This year, she’s taken on the huge challenge of running three marathons with her partner Keegan to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s disease, inspired by her mum’s strength and resilience. We sat down with Nia to talk about her journey so far, the challenges, the gratitude, and what it means to run for something bigger than yourself.
What inspired you to take on the challenge of running three marathons this year for Parkinson’s Disease?
In June 2023, my mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, something I knew very little about at the time. My partner, Keegan, and I wanted not only to learn more, but also raise awareness of the disease and also help fund the crucial research that’s paving the way towards a cure.
Can you share a bit about your loved one’s journey with Parkinson’s and how it’s influenced your mission?
My mum has been living with Parkinson’s disease for two years, showing nothing but strength and resilience to everything that’s come her way. While her life has changed completely, her mindset and positivity never have. She faces every new challenge with determination, and she’s always taught me to never give up. This year, every training run and every marathon has been dedicated to carrying that same mentality forward.
The Journey So Far
You’ve completed two marathons so far—what has the experience been like emotionally and physically?
It’s been a huge journey. Sticking to a training plan since February has come with its challenges. Emotionally, you have to back yourself, to believe you can do it even when everything in you is telling you to stop. Physically, my body has struggled, but I’ve learned that prioritising rest and truly listening to your body is just as important as the training itself.
How has training and running with your partner Keegan impacted the journey?
Keegan has absolutely kept me going through this journey, he’s been so motivated and inspires me to keep going each day. Having someone to train with has been amazing as it starts to take over your whole life so we’ve really been in it together! Although he’s never keen on playing eye spy with me to pass time and is more of an AirPods in, loud music, need to focus runner.
The Final Marathon
What are your thoughts going into the final marathon? Do you feel any different now compared to before the first one?
Just to cross the line, haha! I think I feel a lot less pressure compared to the first run. Learning to just enjoy it. We’ve not done this challenge to work towards a time but more for raising funds and awareness so I really want to just enjoy this run, it’s going to be extra special with friends and family around us.
Is there anything specific you’ll be thinking about during that last race?
Gratitude. Gratitude to everyone that’s supported us on this mission, to each donation, to each little boost of support. And of course, my Mum. Whenever a run gets hard, I can hear my Mum in my head just telling me to get on with it and think of the finish.
Raising Awareness
What do you hope people take away from your efforts beyond just raising funds?
That you can do anything you put your mind to. Keegan and I have never really ran long distance before, but we’ve (nearly) done it. This is the same determination that people who suffer from Parkinson’s Disease carry with them into each day. Parkinson’s isn’t just tremors, it’s also a relentless mental battle fighting against your own thoughts.
Have you had any meaningful interactions or support from the Parkinson’s community during this journey?
Do you see yourself continuing this kind of advocacy or endurance fundraising after this year?
100% - Keegan and I have both agreed that at least once a year we would love to do some sort of fundraiser to keep the awareness going. Whether that’s running or some sort of event, it’s definitely something we’d like to continue.
What advice would you give to others who are thinking of taking on a big challenge for a cause they care about?
Just do it. Find something that inspires or challenges you. Everyone will be there to support you every step of the way and when it gets tough always take your mind back to your why.