From 1st October to 1st November 2024, I'm taking on a daily challenge to help raise money for two great guys.

Over this time, I will be running 10km every day and a half marathon every Sunday and also on the very last run (Friday 1st November).

This is 27 x 10km runs and 5 x 21km (half marathon). Totalling just over 375km/233miles. Those who know me, know I'm not a keen runner and this will be super hard, but I feel very fortunate enough to have the ability to help these two gentlemen by helping raise funds to help towards medicine and treatment to prolong their lives. The final total will be split 50/50 to the two boys.

I will be pressing social as hard as I can to help spread awareness of both of their stories. I will post daily runs, asking people to share to hell out of this challenge and reach as many people as possible to raise as much as I can.

James's Story

James Greenwood is a childhood friend, we grew up on the same estate in Billericay. As we grew up, we went our separate ways, with James going on to be a Royal Marine! Hero!

Here's a little write up from James:

"On the 12th June 2024 at 42 years old, I was diagnosed with a brain tumour after suffering a series of headaches over a few weeks, having otherwise felt in good health. On the 28th of June, I underwent brain surgery to remove the tumour. On analysis the tumour was determined to be a grade 4 Glioblastoma which is the most aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer.

On meeting with the Oncology Team, I was given a prognosis of 12 - 18 months."

James refuses to face defeat and will be taking on his own challenges to help raise funds and awareness in true warrior fashion!

Sam's Story

The fundraising will help to go to an old teammate of mine, a husband and Dad of 2 - Sam Gilbert, who at 42 was diagnosed with bowel cancer which has also spread to his liver and lymph nodes in his chest, pelvis and abdomen.

He's currently undergoing NHS chemotherapy but has been recommended a drug called Avastin, a drug not available on the NHS, and other possible treatments. All funds will go to his medical care and recovery/management programme.

Sam will also be setting up events to help raise money towards his medicine. He's a football nut and is setting up charity football matches with former teams from his past coming together to continue to raise funds. Including our old team Quilters FC.

Let's all come together and help these two great guys and their battle with cancer!

Anyone who knows James or Sam, you're more than welcome to join in on random runs with me. I'll be doing them in various spots around Essex.

Many thanks for your support.