Fulham Woman Prepares for Her Third London Marathon
71-year-old Alison Mungall running in support of Parkinson’s UK
Alison Mungall
April 22, 2026
A 71-year-old Fulham resident is preparing to take on her third London Marathon this Sunday (26 April), running in support of Parkinson’s UK after being diagnosed with prodromal Parkinson’s in 2019.
Alison Mungall, who only took up running in her 60s, will join thousands of runners on as she tackles the 26.2-mile course using a run-walk strategy she has developed to manage her symptoms.
Alison, who moved to Fulham two years ago after a long career as a sustainability consultant, lives with REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder (RBD) and a loss of sense of smell — early symptoms that can precede the more widely recognised motor signs of Parkinson’s. RBD causes her to physically act out her dreams, sometimes shouting, sleepwalking or injuring herself. “Before my diagnosis, I even fell down the stairs while sleepwalking,” she said. “Now I take precautions like securing my bedroom and avoiding overnight travel where possible.”
Despite the challenges, she credits running with helping her stay active, positive and connected. “I love exploring the Thames during my runs, the boost to my mood from fresh air and exercise, and the sense of achievement as I get stronger,” she said. “I also really appreciate the encouragement from other runners – even those speeding past me!”
This year’s marathon holds particular meaning for Mungall. She previously ran the race in 2021 in memory of her mother, raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, and again in 2022 for The Anthony Nolan Trust in memory of her late husband, who was himself a keen marathon runner. “This one is for me,” she said of her decision to run for Parkinson’s UK.
After securing a charity place last year, she was forced to withdraw due to a foot injury. Now fully recovered, she has adapted her training to account for slower recovery times and fatigue, alternating three to five minutes of running with two minutes of walking. “It feels more achievable and gives me the best chance of finishing,” she said.
Alison is also keen to raise awareness of the benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s and for older runners more generally. “I’ve met other runners with Parkinson’s and they all report benefits, both physically and mentally,” she said. “Slower, long-distance running can be especially suitable for older runners, whether or not they have Parkinson’s.”
Parkinson’s UK, the charity she is supporting, praised her determination. Paul Jackson-Clark, the organisation’s Director of Fundraising and Experience, said: “Taking on a marathon is a huge challenge for anyone, and Alison’s doing it with so much heart and determination. We’re so grateful to her for choosing to run the London Marathon for herself and others living with Parkinson’s.”
A total of 244 runners will be fundraising for Parkinson’s UK at this year’s marathon. The charity is the leading European funder of Parkinson’s research and supports people affected by the condition, which has more than 40 symptoms and currently has no cure.
Alison will line up on Sunday with thousands of runners from across the country. Donations to her fundraising page can be made here.
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