The London Marathon is one of the most iconic races in the world, and every year, thousands of runners lace up to tackle the challenge, all for amazing causes. This year, we’re proud to spotlight some of our dedicated runners who are taking on the marathon in support of Coeliac UK. 
From personal stories of living with coeliac disease to supporting loved ones, each runner has a unique reason for running. Join us as we introduce some of these inspiring individuals, and hear about their journey, from training tips to their motivation for running for Coeliac UK. 

Meet Valerie McLeod from Edinburgh 

Q. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your connection to coeliac disease? 
 
My mum realised that there was something wrong when I first went onto solids as a baby. As a young child I failed to thrive; I suffered with many of the now recognised symptoms and finally, after a jejunal biopsy at the age of seven, it was confirmed that I had coeliac disease. I remember feeling so much better once I had stopped eating gluten so that made it easy for me to stick to the diet which I’ve now been on for 50 years.  
  
I am a keen cook and believe that anything can be made gluten free and tasty! I love experimenting in the kitchen and creating new recipes. In 2008, I opened a café in Edinburgh, which catered to people on a gluten free diet before many other venues offered gluten free options. Although I no longer run the café, it was a key part of my journey for several years.

I also love to travel and spent a few years studying and working in Mexico and Spain. Coeliac disease has never stopped me from doing the things I love, and I want others to feel the same way. Whether it’s running marathons or exploring new countries, I believe coeliac disease should never hold anyone back from living life to the fullest.
 
Q. What inspired you to take on the challenge of running the London Marathon for Coeliac UK? 

I started running during lockdown and decided that I’d like a challenge; to run the London Marathon for Coeliac UK as a way of thanking them for their help and continued research into the condition. Also to help raise awareness. I’d never asked for sponsorship before and, as Coeliac UK is close to my heart, thought it would be the best charity for me to support. I have been blown away by the generosity and kindness of my supporters and also the interest that people have taken in the condition. 
 
Q. How has your training been going so far? What are some of the challenges and successes you’ve experienced? 

I’m loving the training. So far, so good! Sometimes it’s hard to motivate yourself to go out when it’s really cold or windy but I’m sticking to my marathon plan and haven’t missed a session yet. I’ve got a great group of friends that I run with a couple of times a week and I enjoy the coffee and the chat afterwards. Our coffee stop now even stocks gluten free shortbread for me! 
 
Q. What does running for Coeliac UK mean to you? 

I feel so privileged to have been given a place by Coeliac UK in one of the most prestigious races in the world. It’s a huge honour to run for them and I hope I do them proud by raising awareness of the condition and much needed funds to continue the excellent work that they do.  
 
Q. What advice would you give to someone considering running a marathon for a cause close to their heart? 
Do it! Challenge yourself. Knowing that I’m raising money and awareness makes me feel so proud. When the legs are getting a little weary, I know I’m running for a great cause so that helps spur me on. Get a running plan and do your best to stick to it. That’ll take away some of the stress on the day (I hope!). 
 
Q. Finally, what are you most looking forward to on marathon day? 
 
Everything! As long as I get to the start line, I know that the crowds and the Coeliac UK team will cheer me along. And my daughters! They both live in London so it’ll be great to see them cheering me on too. I’m just hoping they don’t choose a gluten free restaurant that’s up a lot of stairs for our celebratory meal afterwards. 

Support the 2025 Coeliac UK London Marathon team

With their dedication and hard work, our incredible runners are helping to raise vital funds and awareness for coeliac disease. We’re so grateful for their support and can’t wait to cheer them on at the London Marathon.

 Meet our 2025 London Marathon runners

 Support our runners and donate now