Oxford doctor to race for Lost Chord UK at London marathon

Dr Akash Srinivasan will take on the 13.1-mile challenge in support of Lost Chord UK, a charity that delivers interactive music experiences for people living with dementia.

Lost Chord UK has just five charity places available for the 2027 race and is inviting four more runners to join Dr Srinivasan on the start line.

Dr Srinivasan, who regularly cares for patients with dementia, said: “As a doctor, I regularly meet people living with dementia and see the impact it has on their lives and their loved ones.

“I’ve also been a musician since I was young, playing both the violin and flute, so I’ve always believed music has an extraordinary effect on the mind.”

He was further inspired after reading Musicophilia, the book by Oliver Sacks.

Dr Srinivasan said he discovered Lost Chord UK and the work they do supporting people through live interactive music, and knew it was a charity he wanted to support.

He added: “Running the London Landmarks Half Marathon felt like a meaningful way to bring those two worlds together.”

Lost Chord UK supports more than 9,000 people and families each year through professional live interactive music sessions in care homes, hospitals, hospices and community settings across England and Wales.

Jean Collingwood, chief executive of Lost Chord UK, said Dr Srinivasan’s motivation captures the essence of the charity’s mission.

Ms Collingwood said: “When Akash applied, his words stayed with us because they brought together two things we see every day – medicine helps people live longer, but music helps people live well.”

She explained the broader impact of their work and the importance of community support.

Ms Collingwood added: “Every week our musicians witness extraordinary moments – someone who hasn’t spoken begins to sing, a husband and wife share a dance, a son hears his mum laugh again, a family catches a glimpse of the person they know and love.

“That’s why we’re inviting four more people to join Team Lost Chord UK.”

The London Landmarks Half Marathon takes place next on Sunday, April 4, 2027.

The route takes runners past iconic sites including Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

Those who join Team Lost Chord UK are asked to raise a minimum of £350 and pay a £30 registration fee.

Each runner will receive a charity running top and full fundraising support.

To apply, visit lost-chord.org.uk/london-landmark-half-marathon-2027.