I am running the London Marathon 2022 on Sunday 2 October 2022 (deferred place from 2020) in loving memory of my mum. I am running for Blood Cancer UK, an amazing charity supporting those diagnosed with all types of blood cancer.  

Here is my story:

In late 2016 my mum was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. My mum was one of the most inspirational people in my life and so the news completely rocked me and my family.

Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that starts in white blood cells and attacks the body's immune system. Treatment varies depending on what stage of progression the cancer is at. 

My mum sadly passed away in September 2021, aged 53, after contracting COVID. The support offered by Blood Cancer UK to both my mum and the rest of our family throughout her diagnosis, treatment and sadly subsequent passing has been amazing. They also do amazing research into newer, more effective and less traumatic treatment for those affected, in addition to providing crucial advice and support packages to those impacted and lobbying the government in raising awareness of issues affecting immuno-compromised people in a pandemic world.

I am raising money for the charity as a thank you for the incredible research they do and the incredible support they provide to us and so many other people affected by this terrible illness.

I initially signed up to run the 2020 London marathon. However this was cancelled due to covid and I postponed my place to the 2022 marathon. Whilst my mum won’t be able to come to watch me at the marathon as originally intended, I know (from the support she gave me in my training the first time round) how proud she would have been of me running to raise money for a charity so close to our hearts. 

Any donations will be much appreciated, no matter how big or small. My UPDATED fundraising target is £12,500

I am going to need to put in a lot of work as I have never run anywhere a marathon distance*. Running for this cause will make it all worth it.

*disclaimer, I got up to 17 miles in my original training for the 2020 marathon. I have eaten, drunk and rested excessively in the last 2 and a bit years since and so will be effectively starting from square 1!

On a lighter note, I will post updates throughout my training so you can see the fat sweaty mess I am hopefully get into a bit better shape. Will be disappointed if I lose the beer belly I have spent so much time and money building over the last ten years, but needs must. 

Thank you

Will