Jacques Bernard, from Bournemouth, has raised over £600,000 for charity, including by completing three marathons in 24 hours. The funds support the Steve Bernard Foundation, which he set up in memory of his brother Steve, who died at age 18.
Jacques told the BBC that fundraising has helped him cope with his loss: 'I wanted to turn that emotion and negativity into some positive energy.' During tough moments in his challenges, he often talks to his brother, saying, 'Give me some strength... I know you're around.'
Steve was described as 'happy-go-lucky, very positive, loved to have a laugh and have fun, but also kind and compassionate.' Jacques, five years younger, said, 'He always made time for me... I adored him.'
The foundation supports sporting projects across Bournemouth, Dorset, and southern England. Jacques, who has run the London Marathon twice, will not participate this weekend but encouraged others: 'Remember what you're doing it for, the money you're raising, and how that's going to help people.'
