Charlie Quirke’s Emotional Marathon for Alzheimer’s Research UK: A Son’s Tribute to His Mum Pauline
Charlie Quirke, the son of Birds of a Feather star Pauline Quirke, is set to take on the London Marathon later this month, motivated by a deeply personal cause. On Sunday, April 26, the 31-year-old will run 26.2 miles to raise crucial funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, in honor of his mother’s ongoing battle with dementia.
Pauline, 66, who is widely loved for her role in the hit sitcom, was diagnosed with dementia in 2021. However, it was not until early 2022 that the Quirke family made the news public. For Charlie, this marathon is not only a personal tribute to his mother, but also an opportunity to raise awareness for a disease that has affected his family and millions around the world. “It’s all for Mum,” Charlie says, reflecting on the strength and perseverance that have been the hallmark of his mother’s journey with dementia.
Running alongside Charlie will be a team of supporters, including his fiancée Chloe Thornton, close friends, and a range of famous faces. Among the notable names joining Charlie’s team are Hollywood actor Jack O’Connell, who worked alongside Pauline in Skins, and Luke Roskell, who starred with her in Emmerdale. The team has already raised an impressive £10,000, thanks to generous contributions from donors, including £2,000 from James Corden and £500 from Dominic Cooper. With the new goal set at £15,000, Charlie remains optimistic about the support pouring in for the cause.
The funds raised will be directed toward Alzheimer’s Research UK, which plays a vital role in funding scientific research into dementia treatments and potential cures. Charlie is driven by the hope that his efforts can help further the search for a cure, while also supporting families who are living with dementia.
As Charlie prepares for the race, his thoughts remain firmly with his mum, who, along with her husband Steve and daughter Emily, will be cheering him on from the comfort of their home. While Pauline’s battle with dementia is one that the family faces together every day, Charlie’s marathon represents a way for him to channel his love and determination into something that will hopefully make a difference for future generations.
“Living with someone who has dementia is different for everyone,” says Charlie. “But it’s something we deal with as a family every day. Raising awareness is crucial, and I want to do everything I can to help.”
Charlie’s marathon journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of family, community, and raising awareness for causes that touch us all. As he laces up his trainers, his message is clear: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and every step counts.”
Charlie and his team will be running not just for Pauline, but for millions of families affected by dementia. Let’s show our support for Team Quirke as they take on this life-changing challenge — one step closer to finding a cure.
