Michael Miller, in commemoration of Glaucoma UK's 50th anniversary, has achieved a remarkable feat by completing this year's London Marathon, three decades after he last completed the challenge in 1993, which he also ran in support of the charity. Michael was a trainee ophthalmic surgeon and young glaucoma specialist when he ran his first marathon in gratitude for the charity’s support for his research into glaucoma. This year, his participation holds particular significance as it coincides with the charity's activities to mark its 50th anniversary.
Michael Miller’s message after crossing the finish line, was, "Even 68 year-olds can do it. It took a bit longer than my last one 31 years ago. But I made it!” He expressed his gratitude for everyone’s support, stating, “It has been such fun preparing for and running the London Marathon 2024. The support from friends, family, patients, colleagues and Glaucoma UK members and staff has been amazing.”
In response to how he felt on the day, he remarked, “With my name on my t-shirt and my hat, the public shouted 'Mike, Mike, Mike!' all the way around. It was such fun and the £20,000 I have raised for Glaucoma UK is nothing compared with the pleasure it is given to me over the months of preparation and especially on the day. I thank you all so much.”
In 1992, Michael was appointed as a Glaucoma Specialist Consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital (the first specialist appointment of this type in the UK) and joined Glaucoma UK (at the time called the International Glaucoma Association (IGA)). He became Chair of the Board of Trustees in 2001 and passed on the torch 11 years later.
Joanne Creighton, Chief Executive of Glaucoma UK, extended her heartfelt thanks on behalf of the charity for Michael’s efforts. "We all extend our heartfelt applause to Michael for his extraordinary achievement, taking on his second London Marathon after 31 years, all in support of Glaucoma UK and those affected by glaucoma. We are incredibly grateful for his efforts and dedication to raising awareness of the disease, and we’re also humbled by the support and contributions from everyone towards his challenge.”
After a 40-year career in ophthalmology Michael’s enthusiasm still shines through when talking about his patients, and how keen he is to give back to the Glaucoma UK community. He was inspired to be part of Glaucoma UK’s 'I will…' campaign through which he pledged to run the London Marathon again for Glaucoma UK, for people with glaucoma and for future generations of people who may develop glaucoma.
To mark the charity’s 50th anniversary year, Glaucoma UK is asking their members, supporters and the public to consider making a pledge that will further them towards a future free from glaucoma sight loss beginning 'I will…' Your pledge could be committing to a fundraising challenge like Michael or simply finding out more information about the disease. To make your pledge and become part of this impactful movement, visit www.glaucoma.uk/i-will for inspiration and participation.
