We’d like to give a huge fanfare for musician Jocelyn who’ll be increasing her tempo at the London Marathon this year for Contact

Monday April 15, 2019

Musician Jocelyn tells us more about why she is in an upbeat mood as she swaps arpeggios for running shoes in preparation for this year's London Marathon to raise money for Contact.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

My name is Jocelyn Lightfoot. I am married to Catriona and we have one son, Darragh. I am a classical musician and managing director of a musician management company. I grew up in Lancashire and spent much of my childhood outdoors in the Lake District so I have always been into sport and fitness.

Why did you decide to support Contact by taking part in the London Marathon?

I decided to support Contact when my partner Cat shared the link from the HemiHelp facebook page inviting people to join the team. I think she's been looking for an excuse to get me training again!! Our son Darragh is 4, left hemiplegic and his physio, Jill, directed us to Contact as a source for information and support in learning about cerebral palsy and how our lives might be affected.

Here we found a lively, active community of people willing to share experiences and support each other though inevitably difficult times. The resource has been so valuable, helping us to stay positive and motivated through the initial stages of Darragh's diagnosis so we are compelled to give back in any way we can.

What has been the biggest challenge in your London marathon journey so far?

I originally thought the biggest challenge would be the fundraising but everyone has already been so generous, which has been massively encouraging! In reality the biggest challenge is getting the miles done whilst staving off injuries but I am receiving help from a strength trainer, a running coach and a friend Elena who is helping me with yoga. I'm basically trying to do as little running as possible!

What are you most excited about?

I am most excited about the atmosphere. I've done some mass races before but this is my first time doing the London Marathon and I can't wait! 

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside running?

I dedicate my spare time to being a committee member of both the British Horn Society and the Musician Union Freelance Orchestra committee. I'm also studying human resources to redirect my career enabling me to spend more time at home to focus on Darragh's treatment and attending his appointments.

To sponsor Jocelyn donate via her fundraising page or Instagram @running_for_hemihelp2019