Lewis Ormston, 26, originally from Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, but now living in Manchester, is taking on the AJ Bell Great North Run 2026. Lewis will be running in memory of his grandma, Dorothy, while raising money for charity Arthritis UK.

Lewis fondly recalls having a close relationship with his grandparents and remembers seeing firsthand how much living with arthritis impacted his grandma’s life.

Despite the challenges arthritis brought to Dorothy's life, she never let it stop her. She firmly believed in the power of community and was an active member of the Arthritis UK

Gateshead support group, where she played a big role in local fundraising efforts to support others living with the condition too. 

Lewis explained that “From a young age I remember having the privilege of accompanying my grandma to the Arthritis UK Gateshead support group events and helping out with fundraising. I attended a few dinners, tombola’s and all the fun stuff she helped to organise. 

“I always had a great time alongside my grandparents at these events, but it also gave me an early appreciation of the difference that charities like Arthritis UK make to people’s lives”

Wonderful people like Dorothy and Lewis make a difference.

With the support of volunteers and fundraisers like Dorothy and Lewis, Arthritis UK has over 52 arthritis Community Network groups across the UK alongside a dedicated information and support team providing advice on all aspects of living with arthritis across a free confidential helpline, Arthritis Connect online community and the My Arthritis app.

For Lewis, the run is about more than crossing the finish line.

“Since my grandma’s passing in 2021, I’ve wanted to continue supporting the cause she cared so deeply about. Running the Great North Run for Arthritis UK is my way of honouring her memory while supporting a fantastic charity that helps so many people.

“On the day I'll will make sure to spend some time on the run thinking about her and appreciating the work that she did for Arthritis UK, with me taking on this challenge is my way of continuing to support people like her” said Lewis.

Deborah Alsina, Chief Executive of Arthritis UK, said:

“There are currently over 10 million people in the UK living with arthritis - that’s one in six living with the pain, fatigue and disability it can cause.   

“The Great North Run is such an exciting event and every year I am in awe of the commitment from the hours of training and fundraising efforts form everyone involved.  

“We know the impact of arthritis can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently.  

“It’s very touching to hear about the time Dorothy dedicated to support Arthritis UK and Lewis’ commitment to carry this on in her memory.

“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone in taking part in the Great North Run 2026 and fundraising for Arthritis UK and I wish the very best of luck to you all!”