This Autumn, I’ll be taking on the Robin Hood Half Marathon on September 27th, followed by my first Full Marathon at Chester on October 11th. Whilst I’m putting myself through the miles, I wanted to create a cause for good along the way.

I’m asking for donations to support three fantastic charities that are all very close to my family’s heart:

PACT SHEFFIELD

Chosen by my little sister Darcy, PACT Sheffield supports families across South Yorkshire who have children and young people battling cancer, helping to improve their quality of life along the way. The charity is run by parents alongside Sheffield Children’s Hospital and provides trips, treats and support for children and their families. PACT were a massive support to our family when Darcy was going through her own cancer treatment in 2024, so it means a lot to be able to give something back once again.

NOTTS COUNTY FOUNDATION - CARE PROGRAMME

I’ll also be raising money for the Notts County Foundation’s CARE Programme, which supports people recovering from, living with, and beyond cancer. Led by the charitable arm of the club, CARE provides vital exercise classes for adults of all ages as part of their rehabilitation. But the programme is about so much more than exercise. It gives people the chance to make new friendships and build support networks whilst going through some of the biggest challenges of their lives. The programme has been running for over 12 years and helps more than 300 people each year, but relies solely on funding and donations to keep going.

THE CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE'S CANCER ASSOCIATION

Finally, another charity very close to my family’s heart. Whilst we are closer to a cure for cancer than ever before, research into cancer in young people still isn’t as well funded as it needs to be. No child or family should have to go through this alone. The more awareness and funding we can raise, the more vital research and support can be provided to help fight childhood cancer and support the families affected by it.

Any funds raised will be donated fairly between these 3 fantastic charities, allowing them to continue to great work and vital support they provide to children, adults and families affected by cancer.

As I cross the finish line at Chester, I’ll have logged over 2,000km in training throughout the year. It would be special to be able to say that every kilometre I’ve ran has raised £1 for three amazing causes. But whether we reach that goal or not, any donation, big or small, will go towards making a massive difference to somebody's life. And knowing that every kilometre is helping to raise money will keep me moving when the miles start to get tough! 🏃‍♂️

Thank you so much for your support! 🖤

- Alex