In a remarkable testament to resilience and hope, 28-year-old Holly Dyson is set to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon this Sunday, a mere three years after confronting the depths of alcoholism. Once told by doctors that her life was at stake, Holly now channels her energy into raising funds for Alcohol Change UK, a charity dedicated to tackling alcohol-related harm.
A Life Transformed
Hailing from Southport, Holly’s struggles with alcohol began during her university years, where her binge-drinking spiralled dangerously out of control. Consuming up to two litres of gin daily, she often started her mornings with an alcoholic drink, masking her dependency in a web of secrecy. “I would sneak bottles of wine into smaller containers to avoid detection when going out,” Holly recalls, reflecting on the fear that governed her life.
As her addiction deepened, the consequences became dire. Holly experienced debilitating physical withdrawals and developed liver disease, leading to multiple hospitalisations. “I vividly recall a moment when I was told I would die within six months if I didn’t change my ways,” she shares, her voice tinged with the weight of that traumatic experience. “At that point, I believed it; I had resigned myself to death.”
The Turning Point
Despite these dark moments, Holly found a spark of hope. Struggling against her addiction, she realised she wanted to reclaim her life. With determination, she sought help and began her journey towards sobriety. Now, she serves as a support worker for Change Grow Live, where she leads walking groups and uses her lived experiences to inspire others.
“I was just a young girl trapped in a cycle of addiction, and I believe stereotypes can hinder people from seeking the help they need,” she explains. “There’s an immense stigma surrounding alcohol dependency, and it’s a conversation that needs to be had more openly.”
Running for Change
Holly’s participation in the half marathon is not solely about personal triumph; she aims to shine a light on the reality of recovery and the importance of support systems. By running for Alcohol Change UK, she hopes to raise awareness and funds for a cause that resonates deeply with her own journey. “I want to demonstrate that recovery is achievable,” she asserts, “and that it’s possible to move from a life of despair to one filled with purpose and hope.”
As she prepares for the race, Holly reflects on her transformation from spending days in bed to embracing a life of fitness and community engagement. “Running this marathon is symbolic of my journey,” she states. “It’s a celebration of where I’ve come from and where I’m headed.”
To support Holly’s mission and contribute to Alcohol Change UK, donations can be made through her JustGiving campaign at: justgiving.com/campaign/alcoholchangeuklandmarkshalf2026.
Why it Matters
Holly Dyson’s story is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for change and resilience, particularly in the face of addiction. Her journey not only highlights the struggles faced by many battling alcoholism but also serves as an inspiring beacon of hope for those seeking recovery. By raising awareness and challenging the stigma around alcohol dependency, Holly is not just running a race; she is paving the way for others to find their paths to healing and wellness.
