Our practice is running the York 10km to raise money for Candlelighters; a Yorkshire charity that supports children and their families in hospital.

This came about as one of our doctors’ 3 year old son Finn was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia (bone marrow failure) in August 2024. Aplastic anaemia is a rare condition that only two in a million people are diagnosed with each year in the UK. Finn has been receiving wonderful care at Leeds General Infirmary & is thankfully recovering well following a bone marrow transplant on New Year’s Eve.

The family has felt hugely supported by the Candlelighters team throughout their journey. Family support workers from Candlelighters all wear bright pink t-shirts when they visit - making it easy for the children to recognise that they are separate from the clinical team and all about fun & support. Such support made the unbearable days bearable for Finn & his parents. Candlelighters even helped to make his birthday in hospital very special!

The family also had access to a room in the beautiful Candlelighters Cottage which is only a short walk from the hospital during the tough chemotherapy stage. This was a much needed haven for the family at such a vulnerable time.

Candlelighters also offer 1:1 talking therapy, community support, massage & reflexology sessions for parents, funded holidays, grants upon diagnosis and much much more. They provide an invaluable support to families affected by childhood cancer but also families like Finn’s affected by serious childhood conditions requiring chemotherapy across the region.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.