I want to raise £1,500 for three charities that helped my dad through his final months of life, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support & Cynthia Spencer Hospice

In memory of my dad, Nigel Exelby:

My dad had lived a pretty exciting life, and it was only in our final years together that I really grew to appreciate everything he did, as a person and a father.

He was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in his early 30s, yet he continued to do as much travelling that he could, visiting and working in the US, Europe and the Middle East.

In his youth, dad loved running and endurance events. One of his favourite stories was completing the infamous Nijmegen loaded march, not once, but twice! Maybe I've inherited his love for the endurance buzz, but he was so proud and loved to share tips and stories when ever I entered a mountain race or marathon.

My dad was first diagnosed with Skin Cancer in 2021, and after a small operation we believed he was in the clear. Sadly, in January 2024, he'd received the news that his cancer had returned, and due to his already poor health from the arthritis, no treatments were available for him.

During his final months, we were supported by numerous people and charities, to make his remaining time as comfortable as possible. Because of this support, dad was able to pass peacefully in his own home surrounded by his family, in April 2024.

My Challenge(s):

I was meant to complete the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 25km in May 2024, but I pulled out to help care for dad and to grieve after he passed. In memory of my dad, I have again entered the 2025 Ultra Trail Snowdonia 25km in the hope of raising funds and awareness of the amazing work that these charities do. It will be my first endurance mountain event since losing my dad.

To further increase my levels of suffering (as that's the real reason why people donate, isnt it?), I'll be completing the following events this year:

- Mountain biking 55km 1500m elevation Snowdonia Challenge in March

- Running the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 25km 1300m elevation in May

- Mountain biking 30km 1000m elevation Ard Moors Enduro in June

- Mountain biking 45km 1500m elevation Ard Rock Enduro in July

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, I will withdraw the funds and split them equally amongst the three charities. It's the most efficient way to donate and saves time and costs.

Thank you