Story
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Like many others here, the sole reason I am doing the Great Birmingham Run 2013 is in memory of a great friend, Kevin Paterson, who tragically died after finishing the run last year.
I first met Kev back in 2004 when I interviewed for a job at KPMG. Little did I know that the person I was to meet would become one of my very best friends. I have never met anyone as universally liked and respected as Kev. He was the most kind-hearted, open and honest person you could ever hope to meet. I think the fact that we sat next to each other for over 5 years and never once fell out says everything. He had such a huge personality and an infectious zest for life. I loved how passionate he was about sport (especially of the American variety) It was the one thing I didn't dare tease him about. I never had to ask how the 49ers had done the previous night, his face would say it all!
The last time I saw Kev was the day of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert on 4 June 2012. I was living in the USA at the time, but was on a visit back to the UK. Kev offered to host a Jubilee BBQ at his house, complete with rather nice red, white and blue cocktails. That day I reminded him that we had known each other for over 8 years. Kev said, "8 years? Is that all? Seems like longer." I could never decide if that was a good thing or not.
I wouldn't call myself a runner, and haven't run further than 5 miles since school. I currently do 5k a couple of times a week, but that's it. I've never done anything as crazy as a half-marathon before, but will finish it even if I'm crawling down the street a week on Tuesday. I know he would laugh at me for doing this run. I don't care, Kev. I'm doing it anyway!
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.