Meet Michael: Running the London Marathon to challenge disadvantage
Thursday 16th of April 2026For Michael Gross, running the London Marathon is about far more than completing 26.2 miles. It’s about pushing himself to achieve something extraordinary while raising funds to support people to live fuller, more independent lives.
Michael, 45, originally from North Augusta, South Carolina in the USA, now works as a Service Manager across two Hampshire services, supporting people with learning disabilities and complex needs to live safely and independently in their own homes.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys golfing, playing the drums and keeping up with his running. He also loves taking on new challenges — whether that’s learning something new, creating a spreadsheet, or setting himself a physical goal to work towards.
Now he’s preparing for one of the biggest challenges of his life: his very first marathon.
Taking on an iconic challenge
Michael chose the London Marathon because he wanted something that would truly push him outside his comfort zone.
“I wanted a big, meaningful challenge that would push me well outside my comfort zone and give me a powerful reason to look after my health.”
For Michael, the London Marathon has always felt iconic, and the chance to run it while raising money for a cause he cares deeply about made the challenge even more meaningful.
On race day, he’s especially excited about the incredible atmosphere the event is famous for.
“I’ve spoken to so many people who have completed it and they all talk about the support along the route. I’m excited to experience that atmosphere and see London from a completely different perspective.”
And he knows completing the challenge will be something special.
“Less than one percent of the world’s population has completed a marathon — so crossing that finish line will be a huge achievement.”
Running for Avenues
Michael chose to run for Avenues because he sees first-hand the impact the organisation has on people’s lives.
“I’m proud to work for an organisation whose values genuinely match how I want to live and work.”
For him, Avenues’ values — Respect, Excellence, Integrity and Pride — are more than just words.
“They mean treating people as we would want to be treated ourselves, never settling for ‘okay’, doing the right thing even when it takes more effort, and being proud to be part of this work.”
Having spent his career in social care, Michael understands the difference the right support can make.
“I see every day how the right opportunities and environment can change people’s lives. People often face barriers, disadvantage and health inequalities, and I want to do something practical to help — not just in my day job but through challenges like this as well.”
Overcoming challenges in training
Training for the marathon hasn’t been easy. 
Michael began his training already dealing with an injury, which meant building his endurance carefully and working closely with professionals to stay healthy.
“I’ve been working with a physiotherapist and a personal trainer to build strength and reduce the risk of further injury.”
Despite the setbacks, his determination has kept him moving forward.
“I’ve surprised myself with how resilient I can be — adapting and finding ways to keep going even when things are tough.”
When motivation dips, Michael reminds himself why he’s doing it.
“On the tough days, I focus on the people we support at Avenues. Every hard training session now will help on marathon day.”
He also has a strategy to help him through long runs — breaking them down into smaller chunks and using carefully chosen songs from his playlist to keep his rhythm and pace.
Running to make a difference
For Michael, every mile he runs has a purpose.
“It’s a powerful feeling to know that every pound raised can help improve someone’s quality of life.”
Knowing that people are supporting his challenge has been hugely motivating.
“The encouragement from friends, family, colleagues and the wider Avenues team has been incredible. Seeing the fundraising grow gives me a real boost on the days when training is tough.”
He’s already raised more than £900, and every donation helps Avenues continue supporting people to live the lives they choose.
Looking towards the finish line
When Michael reaches the final miles of the marathon, he knows exactly what he’ll be thinking about — the journey that got him there.
“I’ll be thinking about starting training with an injury, every early morning run, every tough session and everyone who has supported and donated along the way.”
Crossing the finish line will be a moment he’ll never forget.
“I hope to feel relief, pride and pure joy — knowing all the hard work led to that one moment.”
For Michael, completing the marathon will prove something important.
“It will be a reminder that when you combine a clear goal, support from others and a cause you care about, you can achieve far more than you think.”
Support Michael and help change lives
Michael is running the London Marathon for Avenues to raise funds that support people with learning disabilities and complex needs to live independent, fulfilling lives in their communities.
Every mile he runs and every donation he receives helps challenge disadvantage and create opportunities for the people Avenues supports.
If you can, please consider donating to Michael’s fundraising page today. You can donate here
No donation is too small — every contribution helps make a real difference.
As Michael says:
“Every pound and every message helps keep me moving towards this goal. Together we are helping Avenues continue to challenge disadvantage and change lives.”