Joshua's Manchester Marathon 2026 success

Photo source: sportograf.com

When Joshua finished the Manchester Marathon in April 2026, it marked the end of months of hard work and dedication.

At just 23 years old, Joshua took on this big challenge to raise money and awareness for Immunodeficiency UK. What started as a personal goal soon grew into something much bigger.

Joshua was diagnosed with CVID at 16 years of age.

With support from friends and family, Joshua raised an amazing £891. Every donation and kind message helped him stay motivated during training and on race day.

Training for a marathon isn’t easy. It means early mornings, long runs, and pushing through tough physical and mental challenges. But Joshua knew he was helping people across the UK who live with immunodeficiency.

The money raised will help Immunodeficiency UK continue our important work, including providing support, sharing reliable information, and raising awareness about these often-overlooked conditions. For many people, this support can make a real difference.

Joshua said: ”When I was 16, I was diagnosed with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID). That means my immune system doesn’t produce enough antibodies to protect me as it should, so I rely on weekly replacement therapy (immunoglobulin infusions) for the rest of my life. Living with CVID isn’t easy. The treatment helps, but it comes with challenges.

Even on days when I’m feeling the side-effects, I try not to let this define me. I believe that forcing myself to keep pushing physically, mentally, emotionally, helps me stay strong, both for myself and for others in the same situation.

I’m raising money for Immunodeficiency UK because:

Treatment access matters —It’s not just about my infusions; there are many people who don’t get enough support, who struggle with costs, or who don’t have the services they need.
Information & research help — Better understanding of immune deficiency helps improve treatments, reduce side effects, and improve quality of life.
Support & community — Chronic illness can be isolating. Organisations like Immunodeficiency UK provide vital support, awareness, and a voice to those whose immune systems can’t always protect them.

Fitness is one important way I’ve found to help fight infection: staying active, keeping strong, pushing through hard days.”