In memory of Ryan, we are supporting Sarcoma UK, a national charity that funds vital research, offers support for anyone affected by Sarcoma cancer and campaigns for better treatments. Sarcoma is a type of cancer that can appear anywhere in the body. There are two main types of Sarcoma, a soft tissue Sarcoma and a bone Sarcoma (also known as primary bone cancer).

Ryan was diagnosed in May 2023 with CIC DUX4 Sarcoma, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects young people and children.

Ryan immediately began his gruelling and extensive treatment regime. He had over 30 weeks of chemotherapy. This often involved spending Monday to Friday, up to 8 hours a day, sat in hospital receiving treatment. Ryan then went through a 6 week course of radiotherapy on his leg. This caused huge burns, blisters and excruciating pain. All of Ryan’s treatment was based in Birmingham, an hour away from home. Our parents drove Ryan to and from his treatment every day for months on end. He then had surgery to remove the primary tumour, a significant operation, where he spent weeks in hospital recovering. This cancer is so aggressive, it has to be treated with the most aggressive treatments.

A day before his son’s 4th birthday and less than a year after he was diagnosed, Ryan died at home, with his family around him. There are no words to describe this kind of loss.

Ryan never gave up hope. He showed so much bravery and remained hopeful and positive right up to the end of his life. He was constantly reading trial papers, trying to find answers and his next steps. Ryan’s strength and resilience in the face of his illness are a true testament to his character. I desperately want answers to be found for other people going through these awful circumstances.

Your donation will help researchers find answers, and raise awareness to improve treatment and standards of care. Thank you for your support.

Amber

"Ryan was so much more than his diagnosis. I want him to be remembered for who he was. He was funny, playful, intelligent and kind. He was a Daddy, a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a cousin and a friend.

Losing a sibling, after a courageous battle with cancer, is an unimaginable loss. No words can express the depth of my grief. Having the London Marathon to focus on feels so significant and special. I know Ryan will be laughing at me because I am currently quite the useless runner!

I am so happy that Sarah will be alongside me on marathon day. She has been there for me in ways I can never repay. I know we will push each other forward on the day. I can’t wait to cross the line for Ryan, holding my best friends hand. Let’s do this Sarah!"

Sarah

“You can’t really put into words how deserving this cause is, or how emotional running the London Marathon for Ryan will be. Ryan fought with everything he had, but this cruel disease took him far too soon and it breaks my heart that Arthur will grow up without his dad.

Through it all, I’ve been in awe of Amber and her family’s incredible strength. We're determined to raise as much as possible for every family affected by Sarcoma. I know that running in Ryan’s memory will push us every step of the way, right to the finish line. We’ve got this, Amber!”

We can’t thank you enough for your support.

Amber and Sarah x

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Watch us rack up the miles on Strava!

Amber’s Strava | Sarah’s Strava