On 22nd March 2026 Nataliia Bukai and her friend John Cooke will take on the Ironbridge Half Marathon – a tough 13.1-mile challenge up and down the hills of historic Ironbridge Gorge. This is their longest ever race, and they’re pushing themselves to the limit for a cause that truly matters and will directly help to save lives.

Why are we running?

Nataliia came to the UK 2022, just after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Her home country and its people and infrastructure are still under relentless attack 24/7 whilst we enjoy the benefit of comfort and relative safety.

Nataliia and John are keen but very much amateur runners but wanted to do something real to help – and together, they’re running to raise funds for Gary Fear’s next aid trip to Ukraine. Our local hero Gary, lives in our own village in Staffordshire and and bravely goes out to Ukraine several times per year delivering humanitarian aid including food and generators to those who need it most. On his most recent trip Gary in January 2026 delivered life-saving supplies to hundreds of people left with no heating or electricity in temperatures of -20⁰C. Details of his efforts can be found on BBC News website and his own fundraising page.

Our Goal is to raise £1,000 towards, 100% of which will be donated to Gary’s 14th trip to Ukraine which will take place in the coming months to buy food aid packages and generators..

Why now?

The need is urgent. Every day counts. Every donation matters. This isn’t just about running – it’s about standing up and helping to save people whose homes, families and future hang in the balance.

How you can help:

✅ Donate today – even £10 makes a difference.

✅ Share this page with friends and family.

✅ Be part of something that truly saves lives.

We’re running. We’re sweating. We’re pushing through the pain. But we can’t do this without you.

If you’re able to donate or share this page, you’ll be helping far more than two runners on a half marathon. You’ll be supporting people who are racing to survive every single day.

Thank you for standing with Ukraine