A man who ran 38 miles over 38 hours in memory of his sister has raised more than £7,200 for an Isle of Man mental health charity, with friends, family and strangers joining him along the way.

Danny Foulis completed his emotional '38 for Laura' challenge in tribute to his sister Laura, who died aged 38 following a fire at a rural farm stable in Milnrow, near Manchester, on July 3.

The challenge has already raised almost double its original £3,800 target for Isle Listen, with donations continuing to come in.

But for Danny, the experience became about much more than fundraising.

Of the 38 miles he covered, he was accompanied for 33 by friends, relatives, colleagues, children and members of the public who wanted to show their support.

Reflecting on the challenge, Danny said the response had demonstrated the importance of community and having people to turn to during difficult times.

He said: ‘Laura would be so proud of everything we achieved together this weekend, and as the donations continue to come in, I'm so pleased that Isle Listen will receive such incredible support.’

Danny explained that the experience had reinforced a powerful message about facing life's most difficult moments.

Ticking off the '38 for Laura' whiteboard after completing the challenge
Ticking off the '38 for Laura' whiteboard after completing the challenge (Vannin Photos)

‘Sometimes you have to put one foot in front of the other yourself,’ he said. ‘Even at the hardest of times, even in the darkest of hours. But as this weekend has shown me, you don't always have to do it alone.’

What began as a personal tribute to his sister had become an opportunity to encourage others to seek support and recognise the importance of being there for one another.

Danny said: ‘If there's one thing we can all take from this, it's that there are so many more people willing to show up for you than you might realise.

‘If you're struggling with your mental health, or struggling with anything in life, please talk to someone. Don't suffer in silence. Let someone in. Let them share a mile with you.’

Laura was a mother to Ole, Ellie and Jack, as well as a much-loved daughter, sister and friend.

Laura Foulis
Laura Foulis (-)

An inquest into her death was opened and adjourned at Rochdale Coroner's Court in August, with a full hearing to take place at a later date.

Speaking about his family's loss, Danny said: ‘Her loss has left a space in our lives that can never truly be filled. Like anyone who has experienced loss, there's no easy way to describe the impact.’

Despite the heartbreak of losing his sister, Danny said he was grateful that the challenge had brought people together and created something positive in her memory.

His tribute concluded with six simple words: ‘38 miles. 38 hours. Love you sis.’

To find out more about the fundraiser or to make a further donation, you can visit https://fundraising.islelisten.im/fundraising/38forlaura