In marking ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath, Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, reflects on what’s been achieved through David’s legacy.
Ten years ago today, the unimaginable happened. There are no words to truly articulate that experience. Suffice to say, life has not been the same since.
David was deeply passionate about supporting veterans to overcome physical and psychological trauma. That is why he chose to run the London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes.
Nobody even paused to consider that he would tragically collapse 3.2 miles shot of the finished line. He was fit, prepared and ready.
As an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, I felt a responsibility to embody the commando spirit, to turn tragedy into something positive. It was imperative to be the first to adapt, respond and overcome.
As a keen runner, I know David would have done the same thing if it had happened to me, so setting up the fund, and devoting 150% into it was a non-negotiable, whilst providing an all-important positive focus.
The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund was established to continue the race David started. It exists to ensure veterans are valued, supported, empowered, and never disadvantaged because of their Service.
None of this would have been possible without Help for Heroes. I am eternally grateful to Mark Elliot, the late Bryn Parry, and so many others who have supported us in driving David’s legacy forward.
Adversity teaches you many things; often lessons you might never otherwise consider.
Firstly, people are incredible. The generosity, fundraising, and kindness we’ve experienced has been nothing short of phenomenal. The City of Dunfermline shows up year after year for our annual 5K and Quiz Night, and we are deeply grateful. It is equally humbling to see support from across Scotland, the United Kingdom, and beyond.
Raising over £350,000 is both fulfilling and deeply emotional. I am immensely proud of the remarkable fundraising community that has grown – an unstoppable, relentless force for good. It has always been important that everyone who supports this cause feels seen, heard, and valued. To everyone reading this who has gone the extra mile, thank you.
Secondly, a person’s spirit can live on. Hundreds of veterans have received life-changing support in David’s name through Help for Heroes. From Quick Reaction Fund grants supporting rehabilitation, home adaptations, and career development, to broader work across Scotland addressing complex needs, employability, training, community-building, mental health, family support, and more.
Although the war may be over, for many, the battle continues. Last year alone, funds raised in David’s name helped respond to a 36% increase in requests for support across Scotland, reaching over 300 veterans.
When you read their powerful stories about recovery, I believe David would be incredibly proud; not only of what’s been achieved in his name, but of the resilience shown by those rebuilding their lives.
Finally, community matters. Collaborative power provides the voltage behind everything. In difficult times, community becomes more than support. it becomes the force that sustains momentum over years, not just moments. Whether through our annual events, personal challenges, or the hundreds, if not thousands. of people who have fundraised in David’s name, the commitment and kindness shown has been truly inspiring.
One moment that stands out is a man who joined us for the final stages of our 60K challenge just weeks after heart surgery. We had our concerns, but his determination never wavered. It was a powerful example of the commando spirit in action.
Looking ahead, there is still much to be done. Around 15,000 people leave the Armed Forces each year. While some choose to leave, others do not, including around 2,000 medically discharged annually.
With the average age of leaving now just 31, many face the challenge of finding work, housing, purpose, and a place in civilian life.
That is why your continued support matters. Through David’s legacy, we aim to:
- Empower veterans to realise their potential in civilian life
- Provide access to tailored support across public and voluntary sectors
- Create opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society
I said it earlier, and I will say it again – thank you so much so your continued support – you are all nothing short of amazing. Without your support, there would be no legacy.
What we have achieved together is truly remarkable. I hope you will continue to stand with us in supporting veterans in David’s name, through Help for Heroes.
If you can make it along to our 5K fundraising event in Pittencrieff park, Dunfermline on Sunday 26 April, we look forward to seeing you there. It’s an inclusive, family friendly event for everyone to come together to ensure we continue to support those whom David cared most passionately about.
We’ve covered a lot of ground together. Let’s keep going. Ubique.
Could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?
Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52