Allison Sheehry knew she had to turn her life around after her dad, Roy Bryer, died eight years ago or she would end up with severe health problems.
The 34-year-old, of Burlow Road, said: “In my head there is a fat girl who doesn’t want to exercise and just eat cake, but I have chosen to ignore her.”
Previously Allison tipped the scales at 20 stone but has dropped five dress sizes.
She said: “No-one knew dad was ill so I’m running the marathon to help the British Heart Foundation as I think the work they do on educating people on the signs to look for in heart disease is so vital.”
Most Popular
-
1
Shocking CCTV footage shows moment man smashes glass into another man's face in Buxton pub
-
2
Buxton dad targets Three Peaks in 24 hours to help fellow cancer patients
-
3
'World’s best sweet shop’ contents up for auction as Peak District owner sells everything to start new adventure
-
4
Derbyshire water provider leaks 446 million litres of water every day – amid record high temperatures and dwindling reservoirs
-
5
Man left victim permanently scarred after smashing glass into his face in Buxton pub
As well as working and being a mum, Allison finds time to clock up the miles as husband, Brian, is very supportive.
She said: “I’m nervous, I have only ever done half marathons before so this is big step up for me.
“But there is no way I’m going to quit, I need to prove to myself and the doubters that I can do this.
“My life is so different than where it was when dad was alive, but I have made all the right choices .
“Running the London Marathon is a chance of a lifetime for me and I hope by doing this I can help others and hope no-one has to go through a loss like I did.”
The London Marathon takes place in April and donations can be made via justgiving.com/Allison-Sheehry.