Isle of Wight man Osman ‘Os’ Cole is to take on the London Marathon next year to raise money for blind veterans despite having recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
He is hoping to raise £2,000 or more for the charity Blind Veterans UK, which raises money and awareness for ex-military service men and women as well as providing support, rehabilitation, training and equipment to blind veterans to ensure they are able to lead independent and fulfilling lives beyond sight loss.
Os had intended to do the London Marathon this year but was unable to do so because of health issues. However, he intends to go ahead with the marathon next year, on Sunday 27th of April 2025.
Mr Cole told Island Echo:
“In April next year, I will be running the London Marathon for a charity close to my heart (and my current employer) Blind Vererans UK.
“I was assigned my marathon place in early May this year; however, towards the end of May/beginning of June, I had to really bad health flare ups, which resulted in me being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
“As someone who likes a challenge, I have decided in spite of all of this, I still plan to tackle the marathon.
Article continues below this advertisement “I have began my training and am hoping to raise at least £2000 for the charity. I would love to raise as much money as possible for the charity, whilst also inspiring people who get diagnosed with MS (or other potentially life changing diagnoses) that you can still achieve great things.”
Os has raised over £500 to date for the veterans charity.
Anyone wishing to donate may do so here.
