Why the Great Wall of China Marathon?

Running a marathon in China seemed like the sensible thing to do in the middle of our upcoming trip: a father and son bonding moment which gives us the chance to raise some money for a charity close to our hearts.

Neither of us has ever run a marathon — although one of us is still living off the glory of his Tour de France bike ride! Training is well underway, with blisters, tired knees, gels, and constant Strava comparisons around Wincanton racecourse becoming part of our daily routine as the big day on 27th October approaches.

Although it may come as a surprise, we aren't expecting to challenge the course record of 3 hours 9 minutes and having tackled 5,000+ steps on the Great Wall, just crossing the finish line would be nice!

What is Treatment Bag?

Treatment Bag was established in summer 2018, inspired by a simple gift of a bag of apples, given to Maymie (Gavin's wife, Jack's mum) by a cider farmer as she underwent her chemotherapy treatment in Yeovil Hospital.

Touched and cheered by this random act of kindness on an otherwise challenging day, Maymie became inspired to explore if she could expand the idea to ensure more cancer patients felt similarly loved.

She joined up with Lisa Dennis & Jo Anson as trustees to form Treatment Bag, which puts together luxurious cloth bags filled with beautiful gifts specifically selected for those undergoing treatment for cancer.

The charity donates bags to seven NHS hospitals in the South of England and needs regular income to ensure this supply continues. Our target of £5,000 enables Treatment Bag to supply one NHS hospital with bags for a year.

For more information about sending a bag to a friend, colleague or family member going through treatment, please visit their website.

Thank you in advance,

Gav and Jack x