This week, a powerful act of resilience unfolded on the streets of Glasgow.
As part of Week 32 of the 78-week “Miles of Smiles” journey, Marius Coste, facilities management leader at Elior UK, completed a deeply symbolic run through Glasgow city centre carrying a large inflatable heart with wings — a moving tribute to his beloved grandfather, who sadly passed away last week.
There were no theatrics and no humour this time. Just quiet determination, visible grief, and purposeful movement.
Running while grieving is different. The body continues, while the heart carries weight.
Yet the run went ahead — not despite the grief, but because of it.
This moment captured the true spirit of Miles of Smiles: not just joy and positivity, but resilience, compassion, and authenticity. It was a reminder that leadership does not pause in difficult moments — it adapts, endures, and continues with purpose.
The winged heart symbolised a universal truth:
- Love does not end with loss
- Those we lose continue to lift and guide us
- Pain and purpose can exist side by side
This week’s run was not about pace or performance.
It was about honouring love through action and showing that wellbeing journeys include real life — including loss.
Since launching in June 2025, the Miles of Smiles initiative has grown into a sustained commitment to community wellbeing:
- 2,112 km completed through running, cycling and walking
- £2,730+ raised in support of SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) and Clan Cancer Support
- 160 cold showers and 36 cold-water dips completed
- Countless conversations started around mental health, resilience, and compassion
For the business community, this moment stands as a powerful reminder:
Wellbeing leadership is not about perfection — it’s about showing up, especially when it’s hardest.
As the journey continues, one message remains clear:
Progress doesn’t always look strong.
Sometimes it looks like continuing, one step at a time, with a heavy heart.