My dad was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia in the Summer of 2020, it was monitored initially before really taking hold in April 2022 where he went downhill very quickly and there were times where we thought we were going to lose him, I’ll start off by saying
I am extremely grateful to the NHS at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth that he is now in remission.

From April 2022 until now has been very testing for our family, through all of his treatment, his suppressed immune system especially during Covid times meant that we couldn't see him face to face for several months, my dad is a family man and loves to see his children
and grandchildren but Christmas and family events were postponed.

My dad who is now 76 has been a farmer all his working life, his passion is to be out with his animals and working his land. The illness took such a toll on him that he was unable to leave the house other than visiting the hospital (a 90min round journey) 3 times a week, sometimes up to 8/9hours at a time.

All of the above greatly affected his mental health and that of his wife (my mum), my sisters and I supported where we could and had to rely on the mental strength that brighter times lay ahead.

I’ve always wanted to run the London Marathon and been inspired every year by others running for charity. Having seen what my dad and family have been through and seeing what this illness can do, I wanted the opportunity to give something back by running for the Leukaemia Care charity. 

Thankyou, Marcus

Leukaemia Care is a national charity dedicated to ensuring that anyone affected by blood cancer receives the right information, advice and support. Around 34,000 people are affected by blood cancer each year in the UK and we're here to support them through their diagnosis, treatment and beyond.