In April, I’ll be running the Manchester Marathon in memory of my wife’s oldest friend, Catherine, a truly remarkable person who we heartbreakingly lost to bowel cancer in December 2024 at just 35 years old.

Catherine spent 10 years battling ulcerative colitis and, later, cancer. Despite everything she faced, she remained one of the most thoughtful, selfless and upbeat people you could ever meet. Even on her toughest days, she was the one asking how everyone else was doing. She was the friend who showed up, who listened, who cared deeply, and who gave so much of herself to others without ever expecting anything back.

Now, I want to do something in return to honour her strength, her kindness, and the love she showed to so many people, especially my wife.

I’m taking on the Manchester Marathon to raise money in Catherine’s memory for a cause that urgently needs more awareness, research and support. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference and helps others who are facing the same battles Catherine fought with such courage.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, or donating. Your support means the world to us, and it keeps Catherine’s incredible spirit alive.

Bowel Research UK is funding life-changing research into bowel cancer and other bowel diseases.

Every year over 16,000 people die from bowel cancer in the UK and over a million suffer from bowel disease.

By researching cutting edge treatments and investing in the best science, we’re saving and improving people’s lives