Toby was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer in January 2024 with very few obvious symptoms. It came as a complete shock and forced us to adapt overnight from normal life to one dominated by medication, appointments and care timetables. Toby battled this horrific disease with incredible strength, bravery and a smile on his face. His calm, rational and focussed approach has been so admirable. When he could, he watched Freddie’s sports games, Tilda’s dance routines, caught up with friends or sat back with a book in his hand. He’s continued to extend his kindness to others, showing great patience and making so many thoughtful gestures. He is our number one and inspires me everyday.

Despite his heroic fight, Toby died on Sunday the 16th June, poignantly on Fathers Day. The disease had simply moved too quickly.

Throughout this whole period we have been completely overwhelmed by the love and support and we've appreciated every single message, home cooked meal, visit and silly meme! It’s helped us keep strong and focussed on the next step.

Team Toby was formed on the 10th May, to support Toby in his fight and to raise a load of money for Bowel Cancer Research. Team Toby reached the initial target in just a few hours, and at the time of his death had hit a staggering £27000. Absolutely remarkable, we're so grateful.

Upon announcing Team Toby, I had decided it was time to stop wondering about whether I can run a marathon and just do it. With my place now confirmed, I’ll be running the London Marathon in April 2025 with my sister Caroline and some friends who might regret asking ‘is there anything I can do to support you?’! Luisa, Dani, Owen, Jit, Kev and Louisa there is no going back now!

At the same time in April 2025 my sister Vicky will be swimming a marathon in 10 days.

Our children, Freddie (age 9) and Tilda (age 8) and friends are running the children’s 2km run at Beat the Boat in Windsor in July 2024, as long as Tilda has the right outfit!

Clare is running the half marathon in Windsor and Lindsay is running the half marathon in Cheltenham, both in September.

Toby’s work colleagues at Muller took over the month of June with a whole host of fundraising activities including a 24 hour Dance-athon, Bake-off, Walk around the world and a carwash.

And Stuart (our brother in law) kicked off Team Toby fundraising with a half marathon in Edinburgh on the 26th May and absolutely smashed it.

We’d love you to extend your support Team TOby in any way you can, a cheer, sponsorship or if you’re mad enough join us.

Much love

Ali, Toby, Freddie and Tilda X

A bit about Bowel Cancer UK…

We’re the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity.

We fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We’re here to stop people dying of bowel cancer.