Actor Adam Woodyatt, known for his role as Ian Beale in EastEnders, has announced he will run four half marathons over four consecutive weekends to raise money for Bart's Charity. The charity supports medical research and healthcare projects at the Royal London Hospital, which treated his son, Sam.
Ten years ago, on September 29, 2016, Sam Woodyatt was struck by a car traveling at 56 mph in a 30 mph zone while crossing a road in Mile End. At the time, Sam was 18 years old. The accident resulted in severe, life-threatening injuries, including a fractured vertebrae and a shattered pelvis. He was confined to a wheelchair for two months and required an airlift to the hospital. Surgeons performed a five-hour operation to rebuild his hip, and Sam was placed in a medically-induced coma for several days. He also sustained a significant head injury and experienced memory loss.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Sam made a full recovery and has since completed a marathon. Woodyatt expressed his gratitude for the hospital's care on Instagram, stating his intention to run the half marathons to give back.
The fundraising events are scheduled to begin with the Shoreditch half marathon on September 20, followed by races in Battersea and Victoria Park, concluding with the Royal Parks half marathon on October 11. Woodyatt shared his motivation, emphasizing his son's survival and complete recovery, for which he remains deeply thankful to the Royal London Hospital staff. Fans have offered messages of support and praise for his fundraising efforts for the National Health Service.