James runs for love and legacy | News

We would like tosay a heartfelt thank you to James who completed the Brighton Marathon in memory of his dear friend, raising vital funds to support Macmillan cancer support services at Croydon University Hospital and Croydon Mencap.

Thanks to James’ incredible dedication and the generosity of everyone who donated £1,766 has been raised so far. With £387.66 in Gift Aid this brings the total to £2,153.31 with donations still coming in. Half of the funds raised will support Macmillan cancer support activities at Croydon University Hospital through Croydon Health Charity while the other half will go to Croydon Mencap.

James completed the marathon in an impressive 4 hours and 38 minutes running the entire 26.2 miles without stopping. Describing the experience he spoke of both the physical challenge and the emotional motivation behind his run.

“The marathon was really tough, but I felt privileged to be running for two such amazing charities and raising funds for Croydon Health Charity for Macmillan cancer support activities at CUH. The feeling of euphoria when you cross the finish line overrides any pain or discomfort.”

The Brighton Marathon is known for its vibrant atmosphere and James was uplifted by the encouragement of crowds lining the route from residents offering orange slices and jelly babies in Hove to choirs singing near the Windmill and Headland. As the route followed the coastline back into Brighton with the sun breaking through James’ thoughts turned to his friend who passed away last week.

“My thoughts drifted to my dear friend who was supported by the wonderful Macmillan team and staff at Croydon University Hospital early on in her cancer treatment. Running was my way of honouring her memory and saying thank you.”

Music entertainment and positivity filled the course and a particularly emotional moment came at mile 19 where James’ family were waiting to cheer him on. Seeing his sisters, niece brother-in-law and his wife and daughters gave him the final boost he needed to reach the finish line.

“To have my family there in force was incredibly emotional. It brought me home.”

James has since been celebrated by his two young daughters with his youngest telling him he was her hero and even enjoyed a well-earned post marathon foot massage from his wife his first in 11 years of marriage.

Reflecting on the experience James added “To raise money for Croydon Health Charity and Croydon Mencap in this way is a memorable experience that will stay with me for life. My thanks to everyone across the Trust and beyond our walls for the love kind words cake sales and donations. Every single gesture motivated me to keep going.”

We are incredibly grateful to James and to everyone who supported his fundraising. The funds raised will help ensure that people affected by cancer at Croydon University Hospital and individuals supported by Croydon Mencap continue to receive compassionate high-quality support when they need it most.

Thank you James. Your run has made a real difference.