Introducing our first superstar supporter in the spotlight: Louis Way!

How did you hear about Dreams Come True and why did you choose to raise money for the charity?

I first heard about Dreams Come True during my time at Softcat, where they were one of our former charity partners. A lot of my colleagues were fundraising and running on behalf of the charity, and their stories really stuck with me. In fact, it was through that experience that I got into running in the first place as before the 2022 London Marathon, I wasn't a runner at all! But the idea of pushing myself while doing something meaningful for a cause that brings happiness to children facing the toughest of circumstances truly inspired me. Since then, my connection to Dreams Come True has only grown stronger, and it’s become a cause I care deeply about.

What has inspired you to take on all 7 Major Marathons?

Running has become so much more than just a physical challenge for me, it’s deeply personal. I lost my dad quite suddenly at the end of 2023, and training for these marathons became a way for me to process that grief. It gave me structure, purpose, and a reason to keep moving forward both literally and emotionally. Taking on all 7 of the World Marathon Majors is a goal that still means a lot to me. It’s a tribute to my dad, a chance to raise money for a charity that brings joy to families facing their own unimaginable challenges, and a way for me to honour life in its most meaningful sense.

That said, the 2025 London Marathon was a tough moment, I collapsed with just 0.9km to go. After months of training and dedication, it was heart breaking not to cross the line. But I’m not done yet. The 7 Majors dream is still alive... I just need to check if my wife Olivia will let me sign up for the next one!

 

How do you like to prepare for each marathon - both physically and mentally?

Physically, I follow a structured training plan that gradually builds up distance and stamina. It’s a mix of long weekend runs, speed work, strength training, and rest days, which are just as important! But honestly, the biggest part of the preparation is mental. Running can be a lonely grind, and there are days when it’s tough to get the shoes on and go. That’s where I come back to my “why” which helps me focus on not just the fundraising element and raising money for Dreams Come True, but also the memory of my dad, who I think about often on those longer runs.

What surprises me every time is how good I feel afterwards. No matter how stressful the day has been or how tired I feel before I head out, I always come back from a run feeling lighter, physically and mentally. It’s like hitting a reset button. That sense of clarity, release, and purpose is a huge part of why I keep going. Running’s become a form of therapy for me, and it's genuinely had such a positive impact on my life.

 What was your moment of magic during London Marathon?

There were so many, but one that really stands out was seeing my family and friends cheering me on just past Tower Bridge. The energy was electric, and spotting familiar faces in the crowd gave me a massive emotional lift.

But perhaps the most unexpectedly emotional moment came after the race didn’t quite go to plan. I collapsed just 0.9km from the finish, something no runner ever wants to experience. And yet, when I came around, the first faces I saw were those of my best friends and family. As morbid as it sounds, having them there supporting me not just through the high points, but in one of the scariest moments of my life, was something I’ll never forget.

That day reminded me that magic doesn’t only come from medals or finish lines, it comes from the people around you, lifting you up when you can’t do it on your own. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.

 

What was your most challenging moment during the marathon?

Without a doubt, it was the final kilometre. I had been feeling good for most of the race, even in the heat, but looking back, I now realise I was slowly getting dehydrated. I didn’t fully recognise the warning signs at the time. I’d trained so hard and felt mentally strong, but just 0.9km from the finish, my body shut down and I collapsed.

It was a terrifying and humbling experience. I don’t remember much of the immediate moment, but I woke up surrounded by paramedics, and shortly after, my best friends and family were right there by my side. It’s not the ending I’d imagined after months of training and preparation, but it taught me a lot about listening to my body. I’ve since spent time understanding the signs of dehydration and how to better focus on my heart rate during long runs, especially in tough conditions. It was a painful way to learn, but it’s made me even more determined to come back stronger and smarter next time.

How are you feeling about your next marathon, Berlin, on the September 21st? 

I’m genuinely excited about Berlin, it’s been on my list for a long time, and after what happened in London, it feels like the right place to turn the page and move forward. This time around, I’m not focused on chasing a time or hitting a PB. I just want to run strong, stay present, and most importantly finish with a smile on my face.

What makes it even more special is that I’ll be running it alongside my best friend, which means a lot. We’ve supported each other for years on our mutual running journeys, so to take on Berlin together will be a huge moment. And as if that wasn’t meaningful enough, it also falls on Liv’s birthday, so she’ll be out there cheering us on in the crowd. That support means everything to me, especially after what happened in London.

I’ve also adapted my training approach since then. I’m now focusing a lot more on Zone 2 heart rate runs - slower, controlled pacing to build endurance and stay within my limits. It’s made running more sustainable and enjoyable, and I feel better physically and mentally because of it. I’m going into Berlin wiser, more balanced, and genuinely grateful for the opportunity to run again for myself and for Dreams Come True.

 

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone thinking of doing something similar to you?

Start small, stay consistent, and always remember your ‘why’. You don’t need to be an elite runner to make a big difference, just someone with a big heart and a good cause.

How are you approaching your fundraising goals?

I try to make it personal and engaging by sharing training updates, being transparent about why I’m running, and connecting with people emotionally. I also try to match every donation with something creative, like a challenge or a thank-you shout out. It’s about bringing people along on the journey with me.

How would you describe the support you have received so far from Dreams Come True? 

The support from Dreams Come True has been nothing short of incredible. From day one, I’ve felt like more than just a fundraiser, I’ve felt like part of the family. I had the pleasure of getting to know Emma Russ, the former Fundraising Manager, who was always so encouraging and genuinely passionate about the work the charity does. She really made me feel connected to the cause beyond just the miles I was running.

What really stood out, though, was after the 2025 London Marathon and I’ll never forget that Lisa King, the CEO of Dreams Come True, personally reached out to check on me. That level of care and compassion went way beyond what I ever expected. It showed me just how special this charity really is, not just in what it does for children and families, but in how it values and supports its community.

That human touch is what keeps me coming back, not just to raise money, but to be part of something truly meaningful.

What would be your personal dream come true?

If we’re dreaming big, then seeing Fulham win the Premier League or honestly, any trophy would be pretty special. Although I can’t see that happening anytime soon!

But more than that, my real dream come true is to have a happy, healthy family. If I can keep doing meaningful work, give back where I can, and be surrounded by the people I love, that’s everything to me.

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A huge thank you to Louis and his incredible fundraising efforts. If you'd like to support his endeavours for Dreams Come True, then you can do that via Louis' JustGiving page. And, if you're inspired to take on your own challenge take a look at the events we have on offer or contact [email protected].