This year I’m taking on six events to raise money for The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, a place that means more to me and my family than I can really put into words.

My neighbour Des is currently being treated there. My parents’ neighbours were both treated there too. And last year we lost our friend Ian, who also spent time under their care. The Christie doesn’t just treat patients, they support families, friends, and entire communities when life gets turned upside down.

Running and triathlon have always been part of my life, so this year every mile has a bit more meaning behind it.

🏃‍♂️ Wigan Half Marathon

The route goes around the stadium where I spent so many hours training with Wigan Harriers. It’s close to my mum’s house and the place where I first started running.

🏃‍♂️ Manchester Marathon

Next is the Manchester Marathon — a race I’ve run well, badly, and everything in between. Last year I ran it with almost no training after messing up my knee, but there was no chance I wasn’t finishing. It was an emotional one, especially seeing Jane on the course. She and Ian always stood together in Altrincham to cheer runners on. Seeing her there, closer to home, and without him… that one hit hard.

🚴‍♂️ Southport Olympic Triathlon

In May I’ll take on the Southport Olympic Triathlon — swim, bike, run, the usual “this seemed like a good idea when I entered” format.

🚴‍♂️ Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride

In June I’m riding the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride, organised by The Christie. I’m hoping to do it on one of Ian’s bikes that he built.Then riding home after. It should be perfect training before the big one…

🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️ Outlaw Triathlon

In July I’ll be doing the Outlaw Triathlon — a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and then a full marathon. It’s long, it’s hard, and it feels like the right centrepiece for this challenge.

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That’s five events so far. I’m still deciding how to finish the year strong — either the Wigan 10K or the Chester Marathon to round out the six.

Every mile, every early morning, every tired leg is for the people we love and for the staff at The Christie who show up every day to give families more time, more hope, and more care than most of us could ever repay.

If you’re able to support, thank you. If not, sharing means a lot too. And if you see me out training looking like I regret my life choices, just know there’s a reason behind it.