Fight Club: London Marathon Legends

Carl and Chantelle ran in memory of their son, James, who died aged eight from a brain tumour.  

“Running in the London Marathon really is life changing. Thinking back now it still chokes us up.

“During the weeks leading up to the marathon, our emotions were a mixture of both nerves and excitement. On the day, the excitement overtook everything else and we were just so grateful to be there. It was an honour and a privilege to run for Young Lives vs Cancer, as it’s a charity extremely close to our hearts.

“A friendly face on a lonely hospital ward”

“From the moment James was diagnosed, our Young Lives vs Cancer Social Worker, Tamsin, was always there. She helped pick us up at our lowest.

“She was an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, and that friendly face on an extremely lonely hospital ward. Tamsin would stop by James’ bed to just chat and check in. It would really help to pick us up and would often get us through the day.

“And the Home from Home was a safe space where we could be together as a family. Before his diagnosis, James spent all his time with his twin brother Joshua, and we really didn’t want that to change while he was in hospital. Tamsin helped sort our stay at Billy’s House so Joshua could spend as much time with James as possible.

“To know that the support was there, for accommodation, advice, financial grants, or even just someone to talk to, it meant so much.

“We knew James was with us every step of the way”

“We ran the London Marathon for Young Lives vs Cancer to give back for that support, which meant the world, and so that other young cancer patients and their families know they’re not alone.

“On the day, there were so many amazing people taking part and the crowds, they were just awesome. Little children giving out sweets and high fives, people shouting your name and telling you that you can do it. We couldn’t have done it without them.

“When we were running we knew James was with us every step of the way. When it came to finally crossing the finish line, we were overcome with emotion and relief. We felt like the proudest Mummy and Daddy.”

Carl and Chantelle

If the London Marathon isn’t for you…

Our challenges include walking, swimming, cycling and events like our World Cancer Day Cold Water Dip, where supporters raised an incredible £112K. Thinking about taking on a challenge? Discover more of our challenges.