In a remarkable show of endurance and solidarity, a Blackburn man has completed a gruelling 260-mile journey on foot in a London to Blackburn run for Gaza, raising vital funds and awareness for those suffering due to the humanitarian crisis.
Nadeem Vali, 34, completed his long-distance run on Sunday, 13 April, reaching Corporation Park where he was warmly welcomed by supporters, friends, and family. The epic 11-day challenge aimed not just to raise money but also to shine a light on the hardships faced by those in Gaza.
“I am walking, talking, and returned home feeling physically and emotionally much stronger than I did when I left home,” said Nadeem, five days into the challenge. “Physically, I am feeling as you would expect after running 200 miles in nine days. Fatigued, aching, swollen, but Alhamdulillah (thank God).”
The run spanned numerous towns and cities, including Hemel Hempstead, Milton Keynes, Ashbourne, High Peak, and Bury, covering an average of 23 miles per day. Nadeem rested each night in a campervan, conserving energy for the road ahead.
Despite having taken part in other tough physical challenges — such as the London Marathon, 10K races, and the national Three Peaks — he admitted this was his most grueling test to date.
“Training started in December through the winter, which wasn’t easy due to the weather conditions. Not many people will have completed a challenge similar to this, so it was difficult to find a training plan like you do for a marathon. I made my own.”
Limited by work commitments, Nadeem was only able to train twice a week, with his longest preparation involving two back-to-back 20-mile runs. “Of course, physical training is vital, but preparing and training yourself mentally is just as important. Self-belief, tenacity, and dedication push you along.”
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Over £53,000 Raised for Humanitarian Relief
Through his JustGiving page, Nadeem has raised more than £53,000, which will be used to deliver urgent aid to people in Gaza affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Working with a group of friends, he plans to travel to the region personally to distribute emergency supplies — including rice, clean water, and sanitary products — to those displaced by the violence.
“The thought of living a life full of luxuries and comfort while an entire population of people is being wiped out should be a personally important cause to each and every one of us,” he said.
“This isn’t about race, religion, culture, or beliefs. It’s about humanity. I’ve never been to Gaza. But are we human if we are able to sit behind screens, watching the death, and not want to do something about it?”
The campaign received an outpouring of support from people across the country. As Nadeem made his way north, strangers stopped to speak with him and learn about the cause.
“The support has been incredible and more than we ever expected it to be. We set out to not just raise funds, but to bring awareness to people who may not be fully aware of the situation in Gaza and Palestine.
We had passers-by stopping us to ask and talk about the campaign, which we used as an opportunity to create a safe space for open conversations. We hope that those who did see us on the road and didn’t feel the courage to approach us will look into the history of Gaza and Palestine,” he said.
Although he never sought the spotlight, Nadeem hopes his efforts will encourage others to take initiative in their own way.
“Although popularity was never a target of this mission, I am honoured to be able to bring awareness for the sake of the people of Palestine. I hope this encourages all, young and old, to push themselves out of their comfort zone, to take a break away from their comfortable lives and endure just an ounce of pain and discomfort for the sake of those who are less fortunate.”
Nadeem’s London to Blackburn run for Gaza serves as a powerful reminder of what individual action can achieve. His physical struggle symbolises the resilience required in the face of injustice, and his journey continues to inspire conversations about compassion, unity, and global responsibility.
