Tom started supporting The Christie Charity after his wife Alexis was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2025. Tom said that the news turned their world upside down but when Alexis was referred to The Christie, her treatment at the hospital was outstanding.
Alexis is still having treatment at The Christie and Wythenshawe Hospital as the cancer has sadly spread to her bones. Tom says that despite that hard news, knowing that she is being cared for by such exceptional teams at both hospitals gives them enormous confidence and reassurance.
To give something back for Alexis's care, Tom decided to take on a huge challenge, to run 12 marathons in 12 months to raise money for The Christie Charity. Tom's no stranger to marathons but has never taken on a challenge of this scale before.
Tom's first marathon in the series was the Paris Marathon on 12 April 2026, closely followed by the Manchester Marathon on 19 April 2026. Tom says the Manchester Marathon was an incredible experience, with an amazing atmosphere across the city and unbelievable support from the crowds to carry him through the tougher moments.
As well as the support he received on the day, Tom also says the encouragement he got from The Christie Charity in the lead-up to the marathon was fantastic. He says they helped with fundraising guidance and had regular check-ins with him, which really helped to keep him motivated and focused.
Tom's now got another 10 marathons to take on through the rest of 2026 and early 2027. He'll finish his amazing running series by taking on the Manchester Marathon again in April 2027. Charity places are now open at the marathon, and whether you're an experienced athlete or taking on your first marathon, this flat, fast, and famously friendly course is made for you.
"From the moment we walked through the doors of The Christie, the care, compassion and professionalism shown by every single member of staff has been incredible. It’s not just the clinical excellence – it’s the kindness, reassurance and dignity they show patients and families at what is often the most frightening time of your life."
"When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, your whole world changes overnight. You feel helpless, scared, and in a way a bit desperate to do something positive. So, taking on this challenge is my way of doing something positive – giving something back to The Christie, whose incredible people are giving so much to families like ours every single day.
