Comedian Rob Deering to run London Marathon for the 11th time in memory of his dad and to support Parkinson’s UK
Comedian and long-time Parkinson’s UK supporter Rob Deering will be taking on the London Marathon for the 11th time this Sunday, 27 April, in memory of his dad and in support of the Parkinson’s community that’s become so close to his heart.
Rob’s dad, Barney Deering, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2001 and lived with the condition for nearly 20 years. A committed supporter of Parkinson’s UK himself, Barney’s positive and proactive approach to life with Parkinson’s continues to inspire Rob, both on and off the road.
Rob said:
"Running for Parkinson’s UK gives me purpose. My dad faced Parkinson’s with strength, and running has been one of the ways I stay connected to him - and to the wider community of people affected by the condition."
Rob has been a supporter of Parkinson’s UK since 2007 and has raised over £173,000 for the charity. Rob’s efforts include Shake with Laughter, Parkinson’s UK’s annual comedy night, which he helped create, as well as his success in charity TV quizzes, including winning £24,000 on The Weakest Link in 2007. Rob has also been a top fundraiser in previous running events, including £10,000 raised during a previous London Marathon.
Despite a recent injury - a rib fracture just six weeks ago - Rob is determined to run the marathon once again, but at a gentler pace. Rob said:
“This one’s going to be slower and steadier, but that’s okay. It’s about showing up, supporting a cause I care deeply about, and being part of something bigger than myself.”
This year marks Rob’s 26th marathon overall, with additional ultra-distance events like the 100km Race to the Stones, the Bannau Brycheiniog Mountain Ultra, and the upcoming Race to the King in June, which he’ll be taking on in memory of his dad. But the London Marathon remains especially meaningful.
Rob said:“It’s London at its best. Every runner has a story, and so many are running for causes they care about. There’s such power in that - it reminds me of what Parkinson’s UK does every day: bringing people together and turning adversity into action.”
Rob’s first London Marathon was in 2011. Though Barney’s health made attending difficult, he made it to mile 25 to cheer his son on. It’s a memory Rob draws strength from to this day.
He added: “He was there for me that first time - and I know he’ll be with me again this Sunday.”
As a Parkinson’s UK supporter and advocate, Rob continues to use his voice and miles to make a difference - funding research, building awareness, and helping others feel supported in their Parkinson’s journey.
Rob explained: “Fundraising shows me the best of people - their generosity, their compassion. It’s been a way to honour my dad’s memory, and to help others facing the same journey.
“If you’re thinking about running for charity - do it. It’s life-changing. For you, and for the people you’re running for.”
Paul Jackson-Clark, Director of Fundraising & Experience at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We’re so grateful to Rob for everything he’s done for the Parkinson’s community. Running the London Marathon for the 11th time, especially in memory of his dad, Barney, is such a special and personal way to show his support. Rob brings so much kindness, energy and heart to everything he does, and we’ll all be rooting for him on the day.
“This year, 303 runners will be running the London Marathon to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK. With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.”
Rob will be running the marathon alongside his fellow comedian and running partner, Paul Tonkinson, co-host of their running-themed podcast Running Commentary.
To support Rob and make a donation, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/rob-deering-12
Parkinson's is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, affecting 153,000 people in the UK. It has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.
Parkinson’s UK is the charity that’s here to support every Parkinson’s journey, every step of the way.
For information and support, visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the charity’s free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.