Mike Mills, a dedicated teacher and father of three from Gloucester, is embarking on an extraordinary physical and emotional journey: running five marathons in five consecutive days. This remarkable challenge aims to raise money for the Tom Love Trust, a charity supporting young people and community initiatives across the UK and Africa.
Mike’s motivation is deeply personal. His cousin’s eldest son, Tom Love, passed away in December 2022 at the age of 21 after contracting an infectious disease during his travels in Africa. Remembered as a vibrant and enthusiastic young man, Tom’s spirit inspires Mike’s commitment.
“Tom was a magnificent young man, so full of life and enthusiasm. I wanted to do something meaningful for him, for the cause, and to support his family as they cope with a huge loss,” Mike explains.
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While Mike has previously completed Ironman triathlons and endurance swims, this five-marathon challenge is his most ambitious yet. Starting on April 25 from Amersham—the Love family home—he plans to run to Dover, retracing the first leg of Tom’s journey when he left home in 2021.
Coinciding with the London Marathon on day two, Mike has incorporated this event into his schedule, making the challenge even more demanding. Though the exact logistics of days three to five are still being finalized, Mike is prepared to run, walk, and push through every mile until he reaches Dover.
Balancing a full-time teaching job and family responsibilities, Mike acknowledges the difficulty of fitting training into his life. “I run, stretch, and sometimes just feel sorry for myself,” he admits candidly.
His family—partner and children—are a vital source of encouragement, cheering him on throughout the journey. Yet, Mike reveals a personal concern: “I worry about not finishing, about letting people down, especially Tom and his family. But that fear also drives me to keep going.”
To stay motivated during the toughest moments, Mike uses a powerful mix of music, memories, and handwritten messages of support on his arms—tactics that helped him through previous endurance events.
Mike aims to raise £2,000 for the Tom Love Trust and has already surpassed half of that target, even without extensive promotion. The charity continues Tom’s legacy by funding projects that support young people and inspire fundraisers to undertake challenges in his honor.
Mike’s incredible challenge is not just a test of endurance; it is a heartfelt tribute to a young man whose life touched many and whose legacy continues to inspire.