Mat Wheelhouse, Christie fundraiser

Mat Wheelhouse first decided to take on a running event for The Christie charity in 2021. He got really into running during the lockdown and wanted to raise money for cancer research after his dad died of a brain tumour.

After signing up to run the Manchester Half Marathon in October 2021, Mat trained hard for the event. He did lots of 5k and 10k runs, and even pushed himself to a 17k run. With the half marathon being around 13 miles (21k), Mat thought this would be enough preparation.

But Mat found himself taking on much more than he bargained for. When he turned up on the day to run the Manchester Half Marathon, Mat realised he'd missed the event by hours. Instead, he was in the queue of runners preparing for the full Manchester Marathon.

Mat rushed to the information centre to see if they could help him. The volunteer at the counter said the only option would be to upgrade him to the full Manchester Marathon – which they would kindly do for no extra fee.

Determined to complete some form of marathon, Mat decided to take on the challenge of running the Manchester Marathon. Incredibly, he managed to complete the 26.2 miles in an amazing 4 hours and 47 minutes.

For 2022, Mat is planning to take on the Manchester Marathon again – but this time, it will be on purpose.

“I’m running the Manchester Marathon to raise money for The Christie hospital. My father died from a brain tumour at the age of 55.
“My dad wasn't treated at The Christie as he's from Sheffield, but I have lived in Didsbury for over 10 years, often run past it and have seen the changes throughout the years.  I saw the damage the fire at the Paterson did and have watched the new building rise up since then.
“I am in awe of the research that The Christie does into cancer treatments and want to support it not only because it is a local cause to me, but because the effects of the research done there can be felt worldwide.”

  - Mat Wheelhouse, Christie fundraiser

Are you up for a real running challenge? Take on the Therme Manchester Marathon 2022 on Sunday 3 April 2022 for The Christie charity and you can help us to make a real difference to the lives of cancer patients and their families.