A local business professional swapped his usual facilities management role for an inflatable heart with wings this Valentine’s Day, all in the name of community, resilience and mental health awareness.
Marius Coste, Facilities Management Professional at Elior UK, completed Week 36 of his 82-week “Miles of Smiles” fundraising campaign at Aberdeen parkrun dressed as a giant heart, bringing energy and encouragement to fellow runners on the route.
The initiative supports Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) and CLAN Cancer Support, two charities providing vital services across the North-east of Scotland.
Since launching the challenge in June 2025, Marius has:
- Completed 2,323 kilometres
- Raised £2,935 for SAMH and CLAN Cancer Support
- Committed to 182 cold showers and 40 cold-water dips to build mental resilience
Speaking about the campaign, Marius said: “Love isn’t just words — it’s action. Sometimes it’s showing up when you’re grieving. Sometimes it’s checking in on someone who’s struggling. This campaign is about moving forward with purpose and carrying the people we love with us.”
The Valentine’s Day run drew smiles, waves and conversations from the wider parkrun community, reinforcing the campaign’s core message: that wellbeing, connection and community matter — in business and beyond.
As the North-east business community continues to prioritise workplace wellbeing and social value, initiatives like “Miles of Smiles” highlight how individual leadership can create wider impact.
Week 36 is complete — with 46 weeks still to go.
Businesses or individuals who wish to support the campaign or learn more about partnering opportunities for the remaining 2026 calendar are encouraged to connect directly with Marius Coste via LinkedIn.
Still moving. Still raising awareness. Still building resilience — one mile at a time.