In this heartfelt episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Todd Ingraham, an elite athlete and former WA Police canine handler, who has conquered some of the world’s toughest marathons. However, nothing could have prepared Todd for his most challenging battle yet — Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Todd opens up about his transition from the marathon track to living with MND, and the unbreakable bond he shares with his black Labrador and police partner, Chase. This story is about resilience, love, and determination.
Todd’s wife, Tina, has transformed her heartbreak into a mission, raising over $50,000 for MNDAWA. Her dedication and love are a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
If Todd’s story touches your heart, below is a direct link to Tina’s fundraising page
Tina’s Fundraising Page is Here
For more information, you can email
Never Just A Dog Official Website
To Todd and Tina
Thanks for my red puffy eyes now!! I am about to start my annual drive to the Pilbara today!
I have known you, Todd, since you were much younger and stood on podium with you at Rottnest marathon in the 90s, as well as the Cross country runs on Saturday arvos, (Canning versus Melville), and WAMC. I always had a lotta respect for you. Your clear cut, no nonsense way, waste no words! Your grit and determination and work style around training and achieving goals. Life has been packed for you! Wow, you talked so well! (More than I have ever heard you talk!) I loved hearing all of it, but in particular the Melbourne marathon win. Very special to hold that feeling.
I met Tina later, when she became the new Queen of running.
The emotion this brings up is not just for you and Tina and girls, but drags things, (all the while kicking and screaming!), out of myself. I would love to share a snippet with you one day if I get the chance. Thanks so much for sharing. Heart warming story.
Well said Robin, what a brave and courageous man Todd is and what an amazing wife too
Amanda
Wow, an incredible inspiration the both of you and what a beautiful team 🙂 🙂 from a family that has strong defence, police, MND, triathlon and running connections this is such a beautiful and inspiring message of what is possible xxx
I first knew Todd around 30 years ago when he graduated the WA Police Academy (alongside my x partner) and in the following years during their career. In fact I took a video of my partner at the Police Academy Graduation (to send to his mum in UK), which turned out to be Todd (they looked the same on the camera!). I have such fond memories of a lovely man and a great friend to Steve. I saw Todd a few times over the years at distance running events. I was really saddened to hear of Todd’s battle with MND and very very saddened to hear of his very recent passing. I don’t know who will see this post, but I send heartfelt condolences to Todd’s family and friends.
Oh and I accidentally left out all of our incredible canine members of the family ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Todd
I was saddened to hear of your passing today.
I’m grateful for the times our paths crossed during our working careers. At EPLU, Perth and Maylands.
You were always happy to talk and genuinely share regarding work and life.
Thanks Todd for bravely sharing your life story, rest in peace my friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family