If you’d told me a month ago I’d be voluntarily signing up to run 500km, I’d have laughed in your face. Yet here we are…

On 16th July 2026, my husband, William, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Our lives changed overnight, and he’s now undergoing intensive chemotherapy on the Annette Fox Ward at Bradford Royal Infirmary.

Nobody ever expects to find themselves in this situation, but from the moment we arrived, the doctors, nurses and staff have been nothing short of incredible. They’ve looked after William with skill, compassion and endless patience (and probably deserve medals for putting up with him).

To say thank you, I’m taking on a challenge to run 500km, finishing with the Great Manchester Half Marathon on 23rd May 2027, to raise money for the Annette Fox Leukaemia Research Fund.

If I somehow manage to hit the 500km target before the half marathon, I’ll increase it. It seems only fair that if people are kind enough to donate, I should be daft enough to keep running.

The Annette Fox Leukaemia Research Fund helps improve the care and comfort of patients with leukaemia and other serious blood disorders by supporting research, training specialist nurses, funding patient support services, purchasing equipment to enhance the patient experience, and providing financial assistance to families facing hardship.

If you can spare a few pounds, I’d be incredibly grateful. If not, sharing my page or cheering me on as I inevitably start questioning my life choices somewhere around kilometre 347 would also be hugely appreciated.

Thank you for reading, for supporting my challenge, and for helping me give something back to the people who are helping us through the toughest time of our lives. ❤️