Marathon run in memory of tragic father

Nick McKendrick will don his running shorts to tackle the 26.2-mile Edinburgh Marathon next Sunday, May 29.

He will take on the challenge to raise money for two charities dealing with suicide, after losing his father Ian Duncan McKendrick when he was just a child.

Ian, who was 43, lived in Sunningdale Drive, Skegness, and Nick described him as ‘well-known and loved in the community’.

“In 1999 I lost my dad who, in very tragic circumstances, decided to take his own life,” said Nick, 28. “I was 11 years-old at the time and my brother James was 13. Being so young, we struggled to comprehend why he chose to do what he did, and still there are so many unanswered questions.

“Losing someone to suicide is such a complex issue to deal with. It evokes so many irreconcilable emotions and raises hundreds of questions. For someone bereaved by suicide, most of these will never be answered. Suicide will often have a lifelong lasting impact on all it touches.

“At the time, James and I were very fortunate to have benefited from the care and support of our incredibly kind family and friends who helped us to cope through an immensely difficult time.

“Unfortunately, however, there are children out there who have to endure these kinds of tragic circumstances without the support from friends and family that we had. This is where my chosen charities come in, whose combined work aims to improve the lives of bereaved adults and children going through similar difficulties.”

Nick, who now lives in Edinburgh, is fundraising for Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide, and Winston’s Wish.

lTo sponsor Nick, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NickMcKendrick