On Sunday, 2rd November, I’ll be running 100km inside my gym, up and down a 25m track — that’s 4,000 lengths in total.

In doing so, attempting to raise money for two people that need our help. Ben and his wife Melle.

In February last year, Ben was diagnosed with bowel cancer. By the time it was discovered, it had already spread to his lymph nodes and liver. He has fought through major surgery, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and more surgery again. Despite his determination, the cancer has continued to spread, and in April this year, scans revealed tumours in his liver, lungs and pelvis. Ben’s cancer is now considered incurable.

He has recently stopped chemotherapy and moved to a targeted treatment, hoping to slow the growth of the tumours. The treatment has been debilitating and has left him with severe neuropathy in his hands and feet. It’s hard to imagine the toll this illness has taken — physically, emotionally, and financially.

Since initially writing this, I regret to update that Ben has sadly passed away.

What makes Ben’s story even more heartbreaking is that he was also the primary carer for his wife, Melle. In 2021, at just 40 years old, Melle suffered a devastating stroke caused by the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. She spent nearly nine months in hospital and has been working hard on her rehabilitation ever since. Through it all, Ben has been her rock, dedicating himself to her recovery even while facing his own declining health.

Neither Ben nor Melle have been able to work since her stroke, and this has understandably taken a heavy financial toll. Their courage, resilience, and love for each other are nothing short of inspiring — but right now, they need help.

The goal of this fundraiser has now slightly change and will go towards:

Ensuring Melle continues to have the care and support she needs, both now and in the future.

Melle’s sister is a good friend of mine, and while I can’t personally contribute in a huge financial way, this run is my way of doing something meaningful to support them.

If you’re able, I’d be so grateful for any donation, big or small. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this page with others will make a difference.

Thank you for standing with Ben and Melle. Every step of my 100km will be for them.