This whole idea started at the end of last year. Those who know me well, understand that I thrive on a physical challenge and have a passion for helping others, in particular a cause very close to my heart - Finnley’s Warriors and Children with Cancer UK. Finn was diagnosed in 2017 with a rare and aggressive from of cancer called Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma of which only 10 kids a year are diagnosed with. After numerous rounds of intesnsive treatments and chemotherapies, Finn is now in remission, which is down to the fantasic work of 

Children With Cancer UK who provided them with a protocol to follow which saved his life. However not all kids and families are as fortunate as Finn and lose their battle with cancer at such a young age with so much to live for. This is down to the lack of funding availible to childhood cancers and the treatments availible which some havent changed for 50 years and those that are in place are adult protocols used on kids and not specific to them, which is needed. So raising awareness and funds is vital so CWCUK can make these breakthoughs so kids and their families can have a treatment option suited to children and give them the best possible chance of survial. 

 So when I was planning ahead for 2021 and thinking of something to do, it needed to be bigger and bolder than anything I’ve done before, and a true challenge to emulate what these little warriors and their families go through everyday. A challenge to raise awareness and money so hopefully one day no one has to go through what these children and their families battle through. 

So whilst thinking about what to do and contemplating ideas, it coincided with 2 events. 

First, Kevin Sinfields ‘7 in 7 Challenge‘ to run 7 marathons in 7 days for his best friend Rob Burrow who is suffering with Motor Neuron Disease (MND). I thought to myself, ‘That sounds like one hell of a challenge (and slightly fun, I must admit). Something that would really push my physical limit.’

My second inspiration came from an Instagram post from a rower - Pete Reed - who if you don’t know is a 3 time Olympic Gold medalist. And it’s not his achievements in the boat that have inspired me. For those unaware, Pete suffered a spinal stroke whilst at work in the Navy and was left paralysed from the chest down. And it’s his story of recovery, athlete mindset, motivation and mental toughness in what ever challenges you face or are faced with, that inspires me. The challenge might seem crazy, out of reach, even impossible but his attitude and focus demonstrates what can be achieved if you put your mind to it. 

This is what has inspired me to go ahead with the 7 marathons in 7 days for Finnleys Warriors and Children with Cancer UK. 

When/ where is it taking place: 

We will be running them between Sunday 30th May to Saturday 5th June. In a mix of 3 in Devon and the last 4 in Bedford, with the last one coinciding (fingers crossed) with the first park runs since lockdown began. Courses to be released soon. 

There are numerous ways in which you can support us with this challenge. Just by reading this and Finnley’s story you will be raising awareness of Children with Cancer. You can donate to the cause using the link below so one day no child and their family have to go through what this amazing family and many like them have been through. Donations can help find a cure. 

For the challenge itself, we will be posting the courses and we would love it if you would come out and say hello, cheers us on and take photos. You can even join in with us too! This would be in sections during any of the marathons (as much as you like from 10m to 1km to 5km or more) by running, cycling or driving along. There will be a chance nearer the time to arrange this. 

Additionally, you can support this cause massively by sharing this story with as many people as you can so they can read Finnley’s story and join in. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this