Jonathan Day, Christie fundraiser

In 2020, Jonathan had a cancer diagnosis on his left tonsil – a T2 squamous cell carcinoma. He was referred to The Christie for an intense 6-week programme of radiotherapy for the tumour.

Jonathan said it was daunting to visit The Christie for treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The extra restrictions at this time meant that Jonathan couldn’t bring his wife with him to appointments, but he was still grateful for his treatment at the hospital.

He said that everyone who was part of his treatment is a vital cog in the operation of The Christie. This includes everyone from the COVID-19 screening team on the doors, to his consultant David Thompson, his staff, the radiography team on suite 10 and the ladies in the blood room.

Jonathan said he hoped his story would give hope and inspiration to everyone and anyone who may find themselves in a similar situation in the future. And to say thanks to The Christie for his treatment, Jonathan decided he wanted to give something back to the hospital.

To raise money for The Christie charity, Jonathan signed up for The Christie Tower Run 2023, where Christie fundraisers are challenged to run or walk up one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings, the Beetham Tower. Taking in 798 steps and 46 floors, Jonathan knew The Christie Tower Run would be a real challenge.

“Your amazing donations will help this amazing hospital we are fortunate to have on our doorstep in Manchester not only now but in the future. So, thanks in advance to everyone who can find a spare few quid to donate.”

  - Jonathan, Christie fundraiser

Jonathan’s pledged to keep running up the stairs of the Beetham Tower for as long as he can – then he’ll make it up the rest of the way any way he can, in honour of The Christie. He initially wanted to raise £798 with his challenge, to match the number of stairs on The Christie Tower Run. He’s since smashed that with nearly £3,100 raised – an amazing result.

You can join Jonathan and sprint, run or walk up one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings at The Christie Tower Run 2023. Help us get a step ahead of cancer and help us to make a real difference to the lives of cancer patients and their families right here in the North West and across the UK.