Neal Stow- running two half marathons
14 April 2021
Neal historically disliked running until lockdown when he looked for ways to stay fit. After starting with Couch to 5km, Neal set himself the challenge of a half marathon and signed up to the Royal Parks Half Marathon (RPHM).
Several years ago, Neal was diagnosed with macular telangiectasia type 1, a rare disease similar to wet macular degeneration. His uncle also suffered with glaucoma, so Neal understands the importance of eye health which is why he chooses to support Moorfields Eye Charity.
I am very fortunate that the treatment I have received has kept my condition under control and it is thanks to the work and research of people at Moorfields that treatments like this are available today.
Neal Stow
The 2021 Royal Parks Half Marathon event was originally scheduled to be on 11th April. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, it was postponed until October and instead there was a virtual RPHM in April with runners completing a half marathon but in their local area. In a rash moment of bravado, Neal signed up to both the April and October events in aid of Moorfields Eye Charity.
My school friends will tell you that when it came to the cross-country run, I was the runt of the pack. Always at the back, struggling through the misery of cold, wet days covered in mud. It is therefore all the more remarkable that, in my 60th year, I seem to have taken up running.
Lockdown has made it difficult, within the confines of a small flat, to find ways to stay healthy. But with Hyde Park just down the road, it was not long before I was forced to invest in some embarrassingly close fitting sports wear and follow in the wake of Emma, my wife, as she headed out for one of her regular morning runs.
Neal Stow
He has already raised an incredible £1,500 and the total is still going up. Neal, we think you are a superstar! Thank you for your incredible fundraising and being part of #TeamMoorfields
