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"Losing J
Newry man Alastair Chambers is taking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 4 April 2027 to raise funds for USPCA and Epilepsy Action. He also hopes to raise awareness of the impact of pet bereavement following the loss of his Chihuahua, Joey, in April.
Joey had been part of the lives of Alastair and his partner Gerard for 15 years and was very much a member of their family. Mr Chambers said the loss was the reason he decided to take on the challenge.
oey was incredibly difficult. He was part of our family, and when you lose a pet after having them in your life for so many years, the grief is real. I wanted to do something positive in Joey's memory, while also helping other people understand that grieving for a pet shouldn't be dismissed or underestimated."
The race will see him complete 13.1 miles through the capital, passing some of its best-known landmarks. Between now and next April, he plans to undertake a series of fundraising events and challenges, with the proceeds supporting both charities.
It is not the first major fundraising challenge for Chambers. In 2019 he was selected as one of Bridgestone's Everyday Battlers, taking on a 10K challenge at London's Olympic Park as part of the campaign.
Alongside his work as a Marketing Manager, he is a qualified personal trainer and aspiring actor. Even so, training for a half marathon will present a new challenge as he builds towards April.
"The finish line is still a long way away, but every mile has a reason behind it. Joey gave us 15 amazing years, and if doing this can raise money for two important charities and help even one person feel that their grief after losing a pet is understood, then it will be worth it."
Chambers will document his training and fundraising journey in the months leading up to the London Landmarks Half Marathon.
