I really cannot believe I’m typing this….. I am so happy to share with you all that on the 13th September 2026, I will be running the ½ marathon; AJ Bell Great North Run, for Prostate Cancer UK.

This race means more to me than I can put into words. I’m running for Prostate Cancer UK, in memory of my amazing grandad, who sadly passed away from prostate cancer last year.

After being denied a place last year, I was absolutely determined to get in this year and I believe my Grandad was behind this, he just knew that this year would be my time. I’m incredibly proud to be running my very first half marathon, in my Grandads hometown and in the biggest ½ marathon in the world!

Losing my Grandad totally changed my life. I had never experienced grief like it, and it impacted me in ways I’m still coming to terms with every single day, so this run is my way of honouring my Grandad and helping to support others affected by this awful disease.

What makes this even more special is that the Great North Run takes place in Newcastle, ‘Gordie land’, which is where my Grandad; the best little Gordie on earth, was born and grew up, his roots and hometown. I’ll be running through the very streets where he grew up, which feels incredibly emotional and meaningful because my Grandad was the very best storyteller in the whole world. A lot of his stories were from his experiences of growing up in Newcastle, his stories about him and his friends at school, his first job, playing the drums at dances, making up new games with his friends during the war.

So, knowing I’ll be running in the place that meant so much to him gives me strength, and although I can’t give him a huge cuddle at the finish line, I know he would be so proud of me.

Hilariously, I’ve never even run more than 5k before (and that was on a treadmill lol!!), so taking on 21.1km (lets not forget the .1) is a massive challenge for me, both physically and mentally. There will definitely be tough moments, but every step I take, will be for my Grandad and for everyone affected by prostate cancer.

I am so grateful for any support you can please give, because every single donation, no matter how small, means the world to me and helps fund vital research, support, and awareness. I'll be sharing updates on insta of my training progress and other fund raising events I'll be doing, to try and raise as much money as I can because Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men in the UK. That's one dad, partner, brother, grandad, or mate, so every penny counts towards helping fund lifesaving research and support for men and their families affected by prostate cancer.

Thank you ?
Jodes
xxxxx