Why I’m Running 241 KM in one go / through the night / across the country to watch a Football Match...

Backstory

In early 2023 my lifelong friend Paul “Spin” Spencer was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. He’d had no symptoms; it was a bolt from the blue. Cancer is brutal for all, but sometimes the story is one of heroic stoicism, fighting back, ups and downs. That was not the case for Spin. His cancer was relentless and only ever worsened. The truth is from the day of his diagnosis; we lost our friend. In his case cancer took the person before it took the body. We hardly saw the funny, mischievous, outgoing friend during his cancer journey. But there was a notable exception, right towards the end when he was resident at Bury Hospice the real Spin returned. Suddenly his personality resurfaced. Their skill, care and compassion brought him back. He knew and we knew it was fleeting, but what the team gave Spin and us was priceless. They are Experts and Angels combined. The world needs more of both.

Why this matters

The hospice offers calm, reassurance and support at a time that is otherwise overwhelming, helping loved ones to be present, to talk, to laugh and to say goodbye properly. Much of this care is only possible because of charitable donations. While some statutory funding exists the majority of Bury Hospice’s running costs are not covered by government funding, meaning fundraising directly keeps beds open, nurses on shifts and services available for the next family who needs them.

What they gave Spin and what they gave us is what they strive to give everyone. This challenge is about helping make sure they can.

The Challenge

As kids we could see the Gigg Lane floodlights from our houses and we’d always go to the match, walking down the Manny Road to see the Bury Aces. In the spirit of that tradition, I’m going to go to the match in memory of my friend. Unfortunately, I no longer live within sight of the Ground so it will be a slightly longer trip…

I’ll be running from home to Bury FC in one go, in time for the match. 241 kilometres or 150 miles or 48 parkruns…

Spin would have called me an idiot for taking this on, but never for a second doubted whether it can be done.

Unsurprisingly it will be the furthest distance and longest time I’ll have ever run. I’m not sure if it can be done. But that’s kind of the point.

Logistics - Got to have a plan!

The challenge will start 9pm Thursday 2nd April, giving me 40 hours to complete it by 1pm Saturday 4th at Bury FC, Gigg Lane. Giving time for a quick pint before the 3pm kick off against Congleton Town.

Here is a link to the route - https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/426433943

If anyone fancies joining in for a section, drop me a line. I can’t promise the chat will be good, but all abilities will be able to keep up.

I will post a live tracking link closer to the time for those who enjoy dot watching

I’m not on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Myspace etc. so any sharing with others is the most powerful way to help. Please do.

Fundraising is the lifeblood of Bury Hospice and every contribution helps ensure other families get the same priceless time we did.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting.

Matt