Southport Dads Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe Complete London Marathon for Daughters
Two fathers whose daughters were killed in the Southport attack completed the London Marathon together. Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe ran to honor their daughters Alice and Elsie, with Aguiar finishing in 4 hours and 5 minutes.
Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe crossed the finish line of the London Marathon after running 26.2 miles in memory of their daughters who died in the Southport attack. Aguiar completed the race in 4 hours and 5 minutes.
The two fathers said running together has made them "like brothers" as they prepared for the marathon. Both men lost their daughters Alice and Elsie when an attacker targeted a dance class in Southport last year.
Aguiar said he talked to Alice throughout the race. "She stayed with me and helped me go forward to cross the line," he said, holding back tears at the finish. Both fathers told the BBC their daughters were with them in spirit during the run.
The men have found strength in their shared experience and training together. Their bond formed through grief has given them support as they work through their loss while honoring their daughters' memories.
This shows how families cope with unimaginable loss by finding purpose and connection. Their story demonstrates how shared grief can create deep bonds and help people heal through action.
The fathers will likely continue their advocacy and memorial efforts for their daughters.
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