This morning, I have to share with you, the incredibly sad news of the death of our dear friend and fellow runner, known to so, so many as IannodaTruffe, but whose name was, Tim.
Yesterday afternoon, at home, Tim died, peacefully and surrounded by his loving family.
There is a famous quotation, stating that, the good men do is lost with them when they die; this is not true for Tim.
Hugely respected and well loved, Tim has been a constant, reassuring presence on the forums and during his years here, his words have reached and touched the lives of hundreds of runners. His sound advice, his supportive comments, his calm approach to any question asked, has, quite literally, changed lives, changed them for the better.
Tim will not be forgotten, his good, will be carried in us, with us and be shared by us, for years to come.
We shall move forward, in the way that Tim encouraged us to, with the familiar words he used at the end of all his posts in our hearts, we shall indeed...
...Keep Running, keep smiling.
Oldfloss x
I do know that many of you will wish to comment or share your thoughts here. Please do. I shall, in due course, share all of those comments with Tim's family.
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Sorry to read this. Whilst I did not know him. Indeed like many I know no one on here except via the odd reassuring message, I do recall some encouraging comments from Tim. RIP. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Rest in Peace Tim. He will be really missed in this community and I am so thankful for all of the advice, wisdom and adventures that he shared with us all. There seem to be few places on the internet that are so kind and Tim embodied all of the support and fellowship that can be found here.
My condolences to his family and 'real world' friends. Please know that he will also be missed by all of his virtual running buddies.
This is such a loss for everyone here. He was kind, thoughtful, encouraging, funny and exactly the kind of person I would count as a friend. I can’t even begin to imagine how many people he helped on here over the years.
Sending deepest condolences to all of his friends and family. He will be greatly missed.
Iannodatruffe was the first coach and running mentor I had in my running journey. His supportive posts, full of information and explorations of what it meant to be a runner, supported me through many of my running plans.
I feel an immense sadness, but also that I have been one of the very many lucky ones to have been mentored by him through C25k.
In the last few days, I was thinking of him daily, and I was still amazed and awed and supported by his positive and life-affirming presence.
Learning to run is also about learning to live well, and he will remain in my thoughts for many days and runs to come.
Thank you, Tim (Iannodatruffe), from a very grateful runner.
Such sad news. Iannodatruffles posts helped me and no doubt so many many others pointing me in the right direction to achieve success. And those posts since his diagnosis I found so inspirational, honest and brave.
Sad news indeed. I am grateful to have known him, albeit only virtually.. his honesty and his compassion came across in his straightforward sensible posts and replies. He shared both his successes and his vulnerabilities, and I’m sure many, like me, felt he would have made a great friend in real life. I am sorry he and his family have had such a tough time recently - I hope his family will be helped by knowing that his legacy will continue in this forum. Please pass on my condolences to them.. Sue
My heart is very sad especially for his family! I cannot begin to imagine Couch to 5K without our beloved Iannodatruffe…Tim! It was his invaluable advice during lockdown that enabled me to become a runner.. his amazing ability to encourage & teach beginners not only how to run but how to enjoy life around us at the same time… however the way he handled his illness and declining health with bravery dignity and no self pity, epitomises the strength of character he was…and endeared him to me forever. Tim you taught us how to live and how to die! You ran your race with purpose and joy. You made a difference. I will soon be running my 9:9 and that perfect number will be just for you Tim and I will keep smiling as I do it!!
Tim was always a constant and reassuring presence on the forum, and he could ALWAYS find the words .
He certainly helped to guide me through my Couch to 5k journey and beyond with his sage advice and encouragement .. and the occasional stern word when needed , all said with the very best of intentions of course !
He touched many lives and it has been a privilege to share time with him on this forum ... I will miss him greatly!
It feels almost unimaginable to think of HU without Tim but it's a credit to all the work he did that it will continue and, I hope, thrive. Even when he could no longer run, Tim still played such an active part in the forum. He was such a big part of my journey here, when I started C25K in January 2019. Encouraging and guiding with a gentle hand. I am really thankful to him for his help along the years and will miss him dearly. Run in Peace.
I’m so very sorry to hear this news. Tim will be sorely missed here, so I can only imagine how much he’ll be missed by his family and friends. My thoughts are with them at this very sad time, and I hope that knowing how many lives he touched and improved will be of comfort to them in time.
Like many members of this wonderful community Tim/Iannodatruffle’s encouragement and advice lead me firmly off the couch and helped develop a love for running. I know that his legacy will live on through this community. Please extend my deepest sympathy to his family and this very sad time.
What an amazing person, I feel privileged to have known him albeit virtually. A gentleman and mentor who unselfishly dedicated much of his time and knowledge to the rest of us despite so much going on with himself. He did more than keep me on my running path but inspire on how to face some struggles head on sometimes even with a smile. My heartfelt condolences to Tim's family. Thank you Tim, rest in peace.
"If a person you look up to made a difference while they were here on earth, just imagine what they can do now that they have wings."
Such sad news his posts and comments are always positive and encouraging. I have used his training posts in the past and still look them up for advice now and again, Iannoda Truffe will be sadly missed on this community RIP Tim.
I'm very sad to hear this news. I joined this group like Tim in 2013 and always followed his wise advice during and after completing c25k. He was always came over as calm and quietly supportive, with a wealth of practical help. His words got me over bad patches and I can only say thank you and good wishes to his family.
That's so sad. He was full of wonderful wisdom, support and advice. Run free Tim.
Such sad news.
Tim (IannodaTruffe) was my first mentor for C25K his support, knowledge and guidance was exceptional. I know I would not have finished my program without him. He just always seemed to be there to help and provide advice, and information when needed.
Although my running days are over I will be dedicating my next walk to you Tim. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you did for me you will be sadly missed by us all.
My condolences go out to all his family and friends a truly sad day. 💐
I am so sad to read this news. Tim came over as a wise, knowledgeable, calm, kind, modest man who loved to run. I enjoyed reading his posts and his advice got me through many a tricky time. I send my thoughts to his friends - of whom I am sure there are many, and his loving family. He will be sorely missed.
This is hard to write, and the news has floored me a bit this morning.
Tim was on the forum when I started over nine years ago. Like many here, he was the encouragement that kept me going when I came home from Wk 5, run 3 with my first DNF.
Over the years, I watched and listened to all the help he gave to others on the forum with a passion for helping people learn to run. He was always a calming voice of reason if things got a little heated, he was always a welcome presence when I needed some non-admin backup.
He came on board with Oldfloss as a mentor, and we all worked together as a team. The forum is a small part of the running community here on HealthUnlocked. In the background, the admin team communicates, discussing planning and executing ideas, trials and thoughts. Tim was so active on this side, just as everyone else was. After joining us, he quickly suggested running help pages for the forums, and he put so much work into them. I know they have been invaluable to most on this forum.
He will be missed, and my thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
In all the advice, general and personal too, Tim strode across the page making sense every step of the way. His eloquent reflections were a joy, and I imagine his every step was measured and chosen with as much thought as the words on the page. I don't know Tim but I felt he knew me. I am so blessed to have found this mentor at a critical time in my life. Everyone is special, some are just that little bit more special and you're lucky if they touch your life. Thank you.
I am so sorry to read this, I had totally missed any post mentioning his illness and so this was a bit of a shock. In my mind I called him Yoda Truffle (I did tell him) and his kindness and encouragement and knowledge will be remembered and made the hard times a bit easier.
Sad news. I have read and had so many positive comments from Tim and he always provided the perfect link to topics already discussed on here or links to helpful information posts. He made such an impact on here, I was sad to hear of his illness and now to hear of his death. My thoughts are with his family and all of you on here that have known him much longer.
Very sad news. He was there at the start of my C25K and helped me through it. I’ve just returned to this site after injury and reading this …. I now will dedicate my recovery to him, hearing his good advice as I go out there again. Condolences to his family and friends.
Oh, no! This is indeed sad news! And he'll be remembered - at least by me - as the FAQ guy. Thus he'll definitely live on through the massive amount of work he has put into those super useful posts.
His encouragement and his comments will indeed be missed. Maybe it really is time for a "Keep running, keep smiling" t-shirt? And maybe a "just go slower" one, too...
So so sorry to hear this news . He was one of the first to reply to me when I started on my C25K journey many many moons ago . A constant source of encouragement , wisdom, advice and humour. One in a million.
Sleep peacefully Tim . My sincere condolences to your family xxx
Such sad news. We were expecting it of course (Tim had prepared us and said his goodbyes) but still a terrible shock to hear. My heart goes out to his family and friends who have lost someone truly special. Hopefully reading how much we all respected, were inspired by, and appreciated his time and comitment to these c25k forums and how much we loved his positivity and humour will bring some comfort to those he held dear.
I think Tim believed everyone was capable of becoming a runner, he believed in the program (which we all know works) and he added to it so much good advice and gave tips in an easy accessable format, that have helped so many of us acheive success and confidence in running and life. His presence on the forums will be greatly missed but his guidance will continue.
I too will remember him in my heart and thoughts when I go running. And I will smile as he requested.
I’m so sorry to hear this news and send my condolences to Tim’s family. Even though I only knew him virtually, I felt that I knew him and could rely on his sound advice and guidance, always encouragingly given. He has certainly made a difference to my life and the lives of many budding and seasoned runners. Thank you Tim and rest well x
Oh Floss, thank you for letting us know, Tim will be sadly missed, he touched the lives of so many of us. I was wondering. Tim's loss if felt throughout this community and our thoughts go to his family Keep running, keep smiling, Tim kept us all running xx
This is so sad to read, Tim was the very first person to encourage and give me advice on this friendly forum. The amount of people he must have helped over the years will be immense.
My heart goes out to his family and friends. Thank you Tim from your virtual running buddies!
Thank you for letting us know Oldfloss , and I am incredibly sorry to hear this. Tim was so wise, so helpful, and just so amazingly eloquent. I will miss him. My heartfelt condolences to Tim’s family and friends.
Very sad news to hear of Iannodatruffe passing away. He was their when I first joined HealthUnlocked and gave valuable information and always very encouraging. My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP Tim.
Tim was & always will be the forum father…he always had wise words & encouragement for everyone..he certainly touched my life & I was so privileged to be admin along side him…sharing jokes & banter & making each other smile…I will be eternally grateful for his friendship…we don’t always need to meet someone in person to consider them a friend…Tim was a friend to me & he will always be part of my running journey…as I run into the future…I will run with him as I have done when I have managed to run, over the past few months…and I will always be grateful for his messages of encouragement when I wasn’t feeling my best…he always lifted my spirits & said the kindest things…I will miss him dearly 🥺 sending love to his family xx
That is such sad news to hear of Tim's passing. I was on Week 9 of my C25 journey when I discovered the wonderfully named Iannodatruffe. His replies to new runners' posts always full of encouragement, support and humour. What an amazing treasure trove you have left behind on HU Tim, there forever, as you will be in our hearts. I'll make much more effort now to keep smiling, thanks Tim. Many condolences to the family. Rest In Peace
This news took the wind out of me when I read it earlier.
I'm a relative newcomer, having joined merely two years ago.
Tim was immediately there when I made my first post.
Tim curated the FAQ. That's a huge contribution by itself. In addition he had many pre-prepared responses for the most often asked questions, rather than just saying "Read the FAQ".
He'd warned me about pushing too hard in my final week of C25K, but he was gracious enough not to say "I told you so" when I sprained my ankle on the graduation run.
Thank you for sharing this hard news OldFloss. I haven't been onto the forum in a couple of years, but had to return once I heard. Tim was a constant cheerleader for myself and many folks back when I did C25k in 2014, and with the generosity to stick around and always help the new wave of runners out. A kind soul that will be missed.
Awful news, such words of wisdom he always had for all the newbie runners and old! Thinking of his family perhaps we could coordinate a mass run in his honour and donate to a charity when the time is right xx
Thank you. Support from Marie Curie and Hospicecare was invaluable. They do an incredible job and are truly experts at helping families through cancer. Anything to help those charities work would be amazing 🙏
What incredibly sad news. His dedication to helping people on this forum was extraordinary, right up until the end. I can honestly say that every good thing I’ve learned about running on my relatively recent journey I learned from him. I’m sure many others could say the same. He was an inspiration and my heart goes out to his real-world friends and family.
So sorry to read this sad news. I don't post much these days but I'm still running. Lots of advice that Tim gave me, still run through my head as I run (a term I use lightly) he will be missed by many but I'm sure his memory will live on. RIP Tim, you can run free now ❤️
Such sad news. I am going to miss Tim's advice and his presence on this forum so much - such a wise and generous mentor. My condolences to his family and friends.
Such sad news. Tim’s advice was always measured, sensible and straightforward, but kind. His love of running and life shone through and he will be greatly missed.
Such sad news to read. Like many others, Tim gave me support and encouragement, and a few telling offs when I needed them! I doubt I would have got as far as I have in my running without his excellent and informative posts.
Not only did his posts inform, but I often enjoyed reading them due to the positivity and affinity for nature Tim had. I have just read his last post, and even with everything going on with his health, it was beautifully written and positive.
I know ordinarily fundraisers aren't allowed on here, but it would be a very fitting tribute to an integral part of this community if we could perhaps raise some money together for a cancer charity? And maybe have a virtual run in his honour on Saturday or Sunday, with a picture of one of our favourite spots in nature.
I’m newish here but sad to read this. Iannoda Tuffe was wise and compassionate in all his advise on this forum. His post a week or so ago was truly beautiful and inspiring. He knew the truth about running and was unstinting in his sharing of that truth. He will be missed and remembered.
With sympathy and best regards to his family and friends
I can only echo what everybody else here has said about his contribution to my progress. This is a community site, but he would usually be among the first to offer advice, support, congratulations, whatever was required. If I had to name a person I thought of when I thought of this site, it was him. And the FAQ pages will mean that his advice lives on.
As a newcomer over the last few years, and reading through the other tributes here, it is clear he played this role not just recently, but over a great many years. And his recent posts have been both honest, moving and inspiring, even while tinged with sadness, yet never full of the self pity many of us would have felt.
Thoughts go out to his family and friends, and I support the idea of a mass run at some point in his memory.
Many of us feel this way, When I speak with the family next week and find out more, we shall have a idea of the family's wishes and what we may be able to do. X
I don’t post very much but always check comments and Tim really stands out because I’ve found his advice and links to info invaluable and his generous spirit shines through. My since condolences to his family. RIP 🙏🥀
I have just this minute read this. So sorry to read this OF and thank you for sharing . It must have been hard for you.
Tim was the first mentor to welcome me on my C25K journey in 2014.He guided me through all the weeks and more.His encouragement for us all knew no bounds.He will be missed.
RIP Tim. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and all of his virtual running friends.
Such sad news. RIP Tim, you were one of the first people to reply to me when I started my running journey. You were unfailingly kind and encouraging and full of sound advice for both the novice runner and the more experienced. Despite your diagnosis, you continued to share your knowledge and passion over the years and your wise words and straightforward good sense saw many many of us through the highs and lows of our running journey. So thank you Tim. You will be missed by so many people who never met you but whose lives were greatly enriched by knowing you, and that, my friend, is a legacy to be proud of.
I am truly saddened. I respected Tims direct approach and obvious love of running. Prostate cancer took my dad too, so I related very much to Tim and appreciated it when his posts raised awareness of this disease.
Recently I told him that I would be taking him with me on my run, and he replied "don't go too early!"
I was expecting this notification, but it's upsetting nevertheless.
Nooooo 😥😥😥😥😥😥😥😥 I'm so sorry to hear that... He will be missed.... he was such a help here, and his posts always showed such an amazing attitude with all he was facing. I can't believe how much this is affecting me, about someone I don't even know in real life, just through here! Thank you for sharing, and sympathies to the family in their loss 💛
Thank you for letting us know. What incredibly sad news. Tim was one of the people that I turned to when looking for support. His posts and replies helped me so many times to get out running and ‘keep smiling’ while I was doing so. He was always quick to respond and encourage. I will go out this morning and think of him while I am running, and say ‘thank you’ to him.
Condolences to Tim's family and friends. In the short term I've been a member, I have seen his regular contributions and have no doubt that he will be greatly missed.
What a huge loss to this running community- his inspiration and advice was golden, and will be missed so much. I am so grateful for his encouragement and support on my running journey, and his last post describing the joy that running has brought to his life was amazing . Run free and without pain Tim - your wisdom will continue to transform our running and it was a privilege to receive it on this forum.
I'm not a runner, but do see runners posts occasionally and and can readily recall the easy way Tim wrote and supported all those who chose to move forward on park runs and the like. In that regard he was like the Pied Piper with a magic flute. I honestly wish I had met him. I hope the crowds are thronging round him in heaven.
Very sad this morning to read this for a man I don't know and have never even met, but I feel a sense of loss. He was one of the first people to reply to one of my first posts on this forum and I don't do that many. He was always supportive and full of knowledge which left you feeling confident to carry on. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him x
I didn’t know Tim except through his posts which were so full of wisdom and his shining humanity. His death fills me with sadness and, like so many others, I will miss his presence here. I offer my deepest sympathy to his family and loved ones.
That is very sad news. Iannodatruffe was very encouraging with support & advice when Kate & I started out running; his friendly posts will be greatly missed. Deepest condolences to his family.
So sad to hear this news. Iannodatruffe was there at the very start of my running journey with his sound, reassuring advice, and I will be forever grateful. He will be greatly missed. His running legacy will live on. Condolences to his family and friends.
I never knew him personally but his advice was solid gold. All I can do is express my deepest condolences to all his friends and family. May he always rest in peace. God bless you Tim. Keep running and smiling xx
Rest in peace, I would always look out for your posts and stuck to your advice and it's always been kind, supportive and correct, thank you for sharing with this community. Huge Comdolences to your family and loved ones x
I’m so sorry to hear this and in the weeks trying to get to graduation he was a great help to me. He was calm but motivating. I never met him but that really is very sad. I hope he is running and smiling now xxx
This was so sad to read, yesterday, even though he told us in his final post that he was counting his blessings and remembering wonderful runs he had done, whilst unable to move. I think we all wish we could have met him in person, yet I felt as if I knew him. He gave so much of himself and he had such a wonderful attitude to life: go out, enjoy the simple things in life, and keep smiling. It's hard to smile on hearing this news, and I agree with others that it would be good to have some sort of a memorial for Tim. I think his family would be proud.
Such sad news, he was always so positive and encouraging of others and his words of wisdom will be greatly missed on this forum. Sending love and thoughts to his family, sleep peacefully Tim ❤️
Such sad sad news, he was an inspiration to so many, I for one had my life changed by the reassuring and positive messages he posted whenever anyone was struggling. Condolences to his family and friends, he will be missed.
I'm so sorry to learn of Tims passing. He has left an amazing legacy on these forums, wisdom, kindness, expertise.We were blessed to have him here with us, and take comfort that he has truly gained his wings. Run tall Tim, in perfect form with high knees and a massive smile. x
Thank you for sharing this very sad news. I concur fully with every poster who has replied to your post in expressing their sadness in Tim’s death, their thanks for his support and friendship and in sending condolences to his family and friends.
I was thinking of you on Wednesday during my run and thought you hadn't posted for a while. Such sad sad news ! You really were a total inspiration to me always there to help me along the way ! I have learnt to try and enjoy my surroundings not just do the run !! That’s because you advised me to. Your later posts were honest and from the heart ❤️ You will be missed,massive hugs to you and your family Tim ……… Keep Running, keep smiling 🏃❤️
So sad to hear this news. Tim was always so encouraging to us newbie runners. His family should take comfort in the number of lives that he touched. I'll run today in his memory....slowly of course...and with a smile on my face.
I am so sad to hear this, Oldfloss, and thank you for breaking sad news so well. My sincerest condolences to his family, friends and to our lovely community members.
I knew about the diagnosis and progress of the cancer, but I was rooting for him so much, one of the good guys, maybe because I’d started running after breast cancer treatment. Best thing I ever did, helped the fibromyalgia, too. I had not been on here much recently, too sad, because I haven’t been able to run since April due to really frustrating, long winded, not running-related knee problem. I don’t know what made me look today. I feel like putting on my “big girl pants” and gently trying again in honour of Tim. I can report to my physio next Wednesday how it went.
Tim was my “go to” coach, because he seemed so matter of fact, level headed and showed such a “can do” attitude. Thank you, Tim, for the FAQ’s!!! God speed, lovely man, I hope you get to run like a gazelle wherever you are.
So very sorry to read this, it seems like only a few days ago I was reading his farewell post. What a lovely man. He will be missed by so many. RIP Tim.
Sad news. I joined this platform a few months ago, he has been an inspiration in my C25K journey & others. Condolences to the family & friends. Rest in Peace runner.
Very sad to hear this. Tim's advice has helped many of us and I always read his comments, info and links with great interest. I never met Tim but there is no doubt we have lost a friend. Thank you Tim for sharing your journey with us, my thoughts are with his family, RIP Tim.
It's a few years now since I completed the C25K but I remember so many of the littel bits of advice received from Tim. Such a generous man with his time and expertise. He (and many others) contributed to a life change for me in a building of confidence in my abilities and inner strength. It takes someone special to do that over an online forum. Tim was that special.
Thank you, Tim. My condolences to his family and his friends - I'm sure you are feeling his loss deeply and I wish you strength and gentleness over the coming days, weeks and months.
I am so very sorry to hear this news and my heart goes out to Tim's family and friends in the real world. I hope you will take some comfort (eventually, as the loss will be too much to bear for a long time, I am sure) in the fact that his legacy lives on in this forum. Tim was always a reassuring presence on my running journey, with his wise words, knowledge, humour and passion. He truly was, and is, an inspiration. His battle with cancer was so brave and an example on how to live and die with great dignity. Thank you Tim. May you keep running and smiling.
Hello, I just re-joined after a 5 year break and I still have fond memories of Tim's words of encouragement, a very sad day indeed. He was and will always be a shining light. Condolences to his family
That is sad news indeed. As a newish member of this forum I read Tim's post about his circumstances which brought a tear to my eye. He commented so often on not just mine but many other's questions despite his own ill health. Tim will surely be missed by a vast amount of people who have only met him in the virtual world. My life has certainly been influenced by Tim. Wishing all his family and friends fond memories.
I'm so saddened to hear this news, thanks for sharing Oldfloss. I can only echo what everyone else has already said - Tim was truly an inspiration and will be missed greatly. Heartfelt wishes to all his family, friends and virtual HU friends at this difficult time. RIP dear Tim 🙏
I am so very sorry to hear this sad news. Tim was one of the first to reach out to me as a new runner. His reassuring messages and always positive support will always be something that zi will remember, His phrase keep running keep smiling is one that plays in my mind and one that I will put on repeat. I run because I can Thank you Tim, You will be part of my running journey. My condolences to the family, sending you our love. From your running family 🏃🏼♂️🏃🏼♂️
RIP Tim. I never had the privilege of meeting you, but you were a truly kind, generous and inspirational man. You will never know how many people you helped. You will be very much missed. X
I haven’t been a member of this forum for very long, but Tim’s uncomplicated advice to fellow runners including myself was always helpful and useful. It helped me navigate the new experience of running and gave me confidence and a belief that I could ‘do it’. I’ll miss his contributions on this forum but I’m super glad for his input. Condolences to his family and friends.
Being sad about a person passing that you've met or better read just online says a lot, I guess. Tim's supportiveness, his solid advice, his presence here in the HU groups touched so many runners and helped to change many lives for the better.
My thoughts are with his family and friends. Wishing them strength.
What a shock! I'm fairly new to this platform but Iannoda's knowledge and encouragement (totally missed the play on words ya know de truth!!) have been the major reason I persevered to recently reach graduation. RIP, Tim! Such an inspiring guy! You'll be greatly missed by the thousands you've inspired.
A very sad post. Tim would often be the one to step in with words of encouragement and inspiration for me over what has, and continues to be, a difficult year for me both physically and mentally.
I have just lit my memory candle to guide his transition into spirit, and I make a promise to him to keep running and keep smiling as best I can. Rest well Tim 🙏😇🙏
I am so sorry to hear this sad news. The person we knew as Iannoda Truffe put many wise and helpful posts on this forum and his presence will be much missed.
Oh no! So sad, RIP Tim.. He's been there for me (my mentor) over the last 7 years and for all of us.
He usually always chimed in giving motivation when I found the going so tough on my last c25k effort which helped get me through.. He will be so missed, but I know his thoughts and ideas will be carried on by other mentors & admin on here.
This news breaks my heart. The world has lost a kind, funny and brilliant man. My condolences to his family. As for his ‘family’ here, he will be dearly missed, and not forgotten. Keep running, keep smiling, Tim. xxx
Thank you for sharing this sad news. Like so many I benefited from his advice and encouragement and will miss his comments on this forum. My thoughts are with his friends and family at this very sad time.
Sad news indeed. Tim gave me advice and helped me like so many others. If I get out today I’ll think not about the niggles and the cold but about how lucky I am to be able to. Thoughts and prayers for those who knew him better than me and his friends and family.
I am so sorry to read this. I will miss Tim on the forum enormously. His advice was immeasurably helpful - eloquently written, succinct and direct but so caring. I learnt more about running from his posts and forum replies than any other source and always think of his words when I run. His approach to life was truly inspirational. My heart goes out to his family and friends. May we all keep running and smiling in his memory.
So sad to hear, Ian has touched the lives of so many runners with his wise guidance and encouragement (plus a few gentle raps on the wrist when we were going too far too fast!)
I have lost count of the people I have recommended his C25k FAQ posts to as they are an incredible guid for new runners. The resources he created for this community will keep his (user)name and memory alive for years to come.
My thoughts go out to his friends and family who have been lucky enough to know him in life but now must deal with such a sad loss.
Rip dear Tim. His sound advice and wise words will live on in our memories as he helped so many on their running journey, including me.My heartfelt condolence goes out to his family. 🙏
How sad... Tim (although I didn't know that was his name) was one for first people I engaged with on this forum and loved reading this encouraging posts. What an incredibly motivational and kind, supportive guy. Such a loss. Much love to his family who will take comfort in how he helped so many people I'm sure. Xxx
Such sad news, we have lost a true gent and virtual friend. As many have said before, he gave sound advice and encouragement to us all. My thoughts are with his family, if we as his running family feel this sad, their pain must be so much worse. Thank you Tim, RIP
Very sorry to hear this news. Thoughts and prayers are with Tim’s family and friends. He certainly touched , for the better, many many peoples lives. Run in peace kind Sir.
Very sad to hear this. I T was the first person to respond to my very first post, and I’ve been following him since. Condolences to all his family and friends.
So sorry to hear this. I'm an infrequent visitor to the boards, but whenever I posted, he was always there with good advice and encouragement. And he was like that to everyone - a real inspiration to everyone.
Sending much love, good thoughts and condolences to his friends and family.
What sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with Tim’s family and friends.
He had a calmness and authority in this community of runners, a warm wisdom that has helped, and will go on helping* so many of us live better. [*Being written, recorded, it is an ongoing training resource.]
I am hugely thankful to Tim for helping me grow as a runner and more widely. I am heartened knowing his sharing of knowledge and experience has done such good and will go on doing good.
I would like to share what he said when I posted that I had found running wasn’t what I thought it was, in a good way: “…running is actually a spiritual and meditative form of exercise which doesn't have to involve lung busting pain. Keep running, keep smiling.”
Oh such sad news indeed. Tim had been in my thoughts over the last few days and I had wondered if this was imminent. I always appreciated his wisdom and non-judgmental approach to us all. He was a constant presence on the forum. I am sure he was a much loved family member and it would be nice if our condolences could be passed to his family.
I’m so sorry to hear this. His kind and reassuring words have helped so many of us to better health and fitness. He always seemed to know the right thing to say. I wouldn’t still be running after 3 years if it wasn’t for him. Please send my condolences to his family.
Very sorry to read this, condolences to Tims family and friends. I read up on and will continue to read Tims posts on this great forum, his posts are my go to for help and guidance and he left a great legacy here, continuing to write posts throughout.
So sad. Tim was a true gent who put great thought in to his comments. After I had some bad health news I read one of his posts which made me realise that you have to make the most of where you are at and it made me realise that running is so important to me
This has made me very sad. I always imagined Tim as very calm and wise and I always looked forward to reading his posts. I was moved the way he wrote about his illness with a quiet acceptance and with dignity. My husband is in a similar position so this is very poignant to me. Tim will be sorely missed by everyone and my condolences to his family. They must be very proud of him and rightly so.
Such sad news. Tim's inspiration helped me through my C25k journey and beyond. I will always remember him fondly. I just read his final post from a few weeks ago, and that brought a tear to my eye. I will certainly savour every single run from this day forward.
I am so incredibly sad and shocked to read this today. He gave me so much kind advice on here and made me feel able to run and indeed carry on running. As someone has already mentioned it can be hard to find kind online forums and voices and this and his was one. Much love to his family RIP Tim xxx
I am probably the longest actively(ish) involved subscriber to the HealthUnlocked Couch to 5K forum, finding it mid-way through the programme in March 2012. It was only the following year that Tim arrived on the scene and he made a tremendous contribution from his first to his last post and including much behind the scenes work as a volunteer administrator (not forgetting a principled stand about supporting young people with the programme). But it is funny now to remember him as a shiny new runner (and fast learner).
I have little doubt that, although he won't have known and they won't have known, he will have saved lives with his commitment to identifying and responding to every situation where patient repetition of key support information was needed, enabling people to sustain healthy activity.
We know for certain he has enhanced countless lives through his contributions here. That includes lives where ill-health and terminal prognoses have intruded, thanks to his honest reports and calm demeanour. It’s a sad reality that a common disease with a high cure rate will still see many who are not cured and whose disease cannot be controlled long term and it was heartbreaking for me to see Tim following my own, fitness-obsessed, father into that unlucky category and so much younger. Many would have tip-toed away from the forum in Tim’s circumstances. Instead he kept up the same role as ever whilst modelling a realistic and positive approach to his own situation, even after running was no longer available to him.
He and I disagreed (often and politely) about the necessity or otherwise of 'poncy stretching' and a few other things which conflict with my ardent need for running not to involve fuss. One thing we agreed on passionately and which was so evident when he was writing installed in his hospital bed at home is that running makes memories. He knew the truth.
He has died far too young and my heart goes out to his family and to all of us here.
That is very sad news. Whenever I was down about my running Tim would always reply to my posts with wise and encouraging words, equally if I had a good day he made it even better. Will be missed xxx
This is just the saddest thing. His last post was just so lovely and such an inspiration: I think about it every time I do a run. He was always there with encouragement and wisdom and took the time to answer questions properly. I think about him every step of the way and his generosity and I shall continue to think about him on every run. What a sad loss, my best thoughts to his family.
Waking up to this very upsetting news, words escaped me. I can only hope that his family are able to celebrate his life , and the live he's given countless of us on this forum.
I was aware of Tim's illness, but was hoping that he would have more time. Since joining the forum on week 9 of couch to 5k, I have, almost religiously, saved all of his advice on this forum. Because, he had the unique ability to encourage whilst cautioning us, without patronizing, to all the potential pitfalls that'd we'd encounter. He made this potentially solitary running experience a community experience.
He truly inspired me, in ways that are second to none - when you try something new, desperately seeking advice and the reassurance that what you're experiencing is okay - he was there.
He made this running game so much more fun and ultimately safe: 'slow down', the antithesis of everything you think that you should be doing.
My life is forever changed from his generosity in sharing his knowledge and experience. For that I am forever thankful.
I only started my C25K at the end of August and did my final run this morning, unlike most on here I never had any communication with Tim, because I never posted any of my progress until today. However I did recognise his name and it was his FAQ articles that I read many times over the last few weeks that helped me through the program. Sincere condolences to Tim’s family and friends
very saddened to hear this news. He was such a helpful guy, always willing to post up advice and signpost newbies to useful information. He took the time to give detailed responses to people’ s queries. Please pass on my condolences to his family.
I’d like to add my voice to all the others saying what an inspiration and encouragement Tim was.
If ever anyone posted a question, you could bet that Tim would reply with a kind, well-written response, politely challenging those who were spouting nonsense and reassuring those who were filled with self-doubt.
So many of his posts helped me when I was struggling, feeling disheartened or just confused about what to do.
His calm, funny and kind voice will be very sorely missed by all his virtual friends here. I send my sincere condolences to his real-life friends, and family.
I'm so sorry to read this. I've been thinking of him on my runs recently and especially his recent post about going slowly and enjoying your surroundings. This morning I took my time to enjoy the beautiful misty landscape - and stopped to enjoy it and take a photo, inspired by Tim.
I've also found Tim hugely helpful over the years, always full of sensible, practical, realistic advice. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Such sad news. As others have said, Run in peace, Tim. Loved running, loved nature and he loved this forum. The friendly guy with the weird Italian name – how many of us took a while to get it : ) Sincere condolences to his family and friends. We will miss him.
From the moment I started running Tim was there whether it was FAQ’s, encouragement or celebration when I graduated. To me he was a gentle, kind inspirational man who had achieved so much himself through running which he was always happy to share.
When he posted the first message about his illness and need to retire from running I was shocked - how could this man give so much of himself to respond to my small challenges when he was battling his own huge challenges?
I got a sense that his continued involvement gave him something positive to focus on supporting us all for as long as he could.
Tim’s legacy lives on through this forum and I for one, am grateful for his expert support.
I hope the many messages of love and respect give some comfort to his family at such a sad, difficult time. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Tim was someone who made a difference. A difference to so many of us here on this forum. I have never forgotten the welcome I got from him when I graduated from C25K all those years ago, calling me a fellow runner. This meant a very great deal to me, as I certainly didn't consider myself a runner at that point.
Tim and I shared many personal messages over the last few years, as we both dealt with our respective cancer journeys. He popped into my head the day he passed, and I re-read some of those messages...I also recalled one of his last posts in the group where he spoke about smiling when he ran, and I gave a huge smile for Tim on that day, even though my particular run was not one of my best...this is what Tim gave to us, the ability to enjoy our chosen sport even when it doesn't go as well as we might hope.
He will remain in our thoughts and memories for a long time, as we remember his gift for encouraging us on...I think he wouldn't want us to be sad, but to keep that smile going....
So sorry to hear the sad news of Tim's passing. I was so moved by his unselfish dedication in helping so many on this forum whilst facing such terrible adversity himself. I will always be grateful for the guidance and advice he gave me. My deepest condolences to his family. RIP Tim
He was was such an encouraging mentor during my C25K journey. His final post was both heartbreaking and uplifting. I bet he is running with angels every day.
Tim was and always will be an inspiration to this forum always positive and his 'keep running keep smiling' mantra made you do just that. I loved how he shared with the forum, his journey with cancer which I'm sure would have got some men with similar symptoms to visit their GP . Such sad news xxxx
I think he was the first person to respond to my initial post! He was an inspiration to me and always had a kind word of encouragement regardless of the situation! He was the back drop of this forum, one of the cornerstones. We have all benefited from his experience. Thinking of you and your family at this time - Fly high Tim RIP x
I’m a relative newcomer to this group and although I didn’t know Tim I had a strong sense of him as a person. I knew this news was coming but when I read your post last night Old Floss I felt very emotional and was unable to reply.
Thinking back on his last long post and looking at the morning sky just now I’m focusing on the positivity he espoused and I’m saying Thanks Tim, you made a difference. And those FAQs will stand all the newbies in good stead!
Condolences to Tim’s family. Thanks for sharing him with us.
Wow! This was not what I expected to be reading when I jumped back on here for a quick scan of posts. 😢 stopped me in my tracks and I have a lump in my throat.
I’m so saddened to read this - he was one of my first mentors on here and for a long time I wasn’t even aware of his illness, I don’t think he ever hid it but it most definitely did not define him! I feel blessed and privileged to have been coached by him but I also feel so sad at losing one of my first virtual running family.
I last connected with him 6 months ago - his post ‘reflective ramblings’, was such an authentic post- I used the word Inspirational and was grateful that he humbly accepted my description of him. What a guy! For me he was Mr Truffle - aka Tim and his many words of wisdom really helped me on my running journey. He also gave me some giggles along the way.
Seeing him on here was reassuring, always here for advice and he will be very missed. He brought something very special to the forum. I always thought of him as the ‘Dad’ of the forum ( even tho I’m a grandmother’)
He’s gained his angel running shoes 👟 👟🤍
Sending so much love to his family who I’m sure are heartbroken at losing him 💔💕xx
I hope our thoughts and memories bring some comfort to them xx
I'm relatively new to this forum, but it was immediately obvious that Tim's timely advice in response to all our queries kept hundreds (maybe thousands?) of new runners free of injuries. That is a massive contribution to the health of the nation. Well done Tim and thank you. RIP.
In addition to my comment that I wrote further down, I feel it would be nice to do something to show his family just how respected he was, and also could this forum have something on to remember him, don't know the answer to both questions but there must be something. 🤔
I’m not sure what to say. How can one feel so sad about the passing of someone that you’ve never actually met or whose voice you have never heard? And yet I do feel really sad. Tim was an absolute inspiration. His advice, his words of encouragement and sometimes caution were so very helpful. He will be sorely missed by so many. Deepest sympathy to his loved ones.
Such very sad news. My heart goes out to his family. Tim was my first mentor on here and I shall always remember him as a special person who changed my life for the better. ❤️
So sorry to read this. He was a great mentor. Often the first to congratulate people on their achievements, always ready with words of encouragement. His Frequently Asked Questions pages contain so much running wisdom and will hopefully remain. On one of my runs last week here in the Netherlands I suddenly thought of Tim and his love for nature and paused to take this picture. I'll think of him when I pass by there again.
That is such sad news. He was kind constructive and supportive when I started my Couch to 5k journey and first slow parkruns (45 minutes, now down to 35 mins). My thoughts with his family.
Thanks Oldfloss for sharing such sad news. Tim was and will continue to be, an absolute inspiration and has touched so many lives in so many positive ways. Will keep running and smiling to honour his memory. Sincere condolences to his friends and family.
What can I say that hasn't already been said. Tim was a runner who was with me from the very beginning of my C25K journey. My journey has taken me to the dizzy heights of being able to run 10k without injuries. I could never have done that without Tim's truly superb advice. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Tim.
Oh that is so desperately sad. He was such a supporting guy; much loved and valued. Please pass on my deepest condolences to his family from one of the many runners he encouraged so kindly and thoughtfully
Very sad to hear the news. The wonderful comments made here on the forum really say it all - nothing I can add except: Thanks, Tim, for all your wise advice and help, sense of humour … and “da truffe!” Good to know that so many of us will be running with Tim in our minds and hearts, and with smiles on our faces!
hadn’t replied earlier as I found it really difficult to think of what to say…,
Tim really cared about the running community, especially the ‘newbies’ and always tried to keep responses positive and encouraging…even when warning people about running too fast!
My heart goes out to his family and friends at this sad time…
As for Tim himself…as he said…he will always have his runs… …and the FAQs are his legacy, so future runners can still access his words of support and wisdom…
So in his memory I *will* run when I can…and keep smiling…
…run free Tim 💕🦋
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