My Story

To support my family's simultaneous fundraiser for Hostage International, please visit this link: https://tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/anoosheh-ashoori

Ever since my dad committed to the idea of doing a marathon while he was imprisoned in Iran, I convinced myself that I had to join him if the opportunity eventually came. Now, that he is free, it is time to step up and do so.

I think a marathon is very similar to the process our family went through, in that it was based on a challenge of remaining patient and resilient in an extremely long and seemingly endless battle. The step-by-step nature of the run and the need to focus on the present moment is similar to the day-to-day coping mechanism that we developed throughout our quest for Anoosheh's freedom. The only difference is that we can train and prepare for it this time.

We can use this occasion to give back to those who supported us when all prospect of hope seemed bleak. Hostage International was the only organisation that connected to our situation on a deeply personal level, which is embedded at the charity's core DNA through Terry Waite. The charity gave us every resource it had available, regardless of the nature of help we required. This support was invaluable to our family and we want to ensure that others can continue to access it if they need to. This is why I will be running for Hostage International, and hopefully crossing the finish line with my father in celebration of our cause.