Liverpool fundraiser takes on mammoth challenge to support North West Cancer Research

North West Cancer Research is a local charity dedicated to putting our region’s cancer needs first

A runner from Liverpool took on his first London Marathon in aid of North West Cancer Research last month, with a challenging twist. 

48-year-old Kevin White joined almost 50,000 runners to complete the famous course on Sunday 23^rd April, but not before completing an additional cycling challenge on his way to the capital. 

Kevin, who has smashed his fundraising target and raised over £7,000, cycled from his home in Liverpool to London, before donning a 40lb backpack to run the London Marathon course. 

The cycle to the capital, which took three days, included two overnight stops in Shawbury and Cirencester to recuperate after tackling at least 100 miles each day. Kevin’s route saw him set off in Liverpool and pass-through locations including Northwich, Shrewsbury and the Cotswolds before he took to the streets of London for one of the world’s biggest marathons. 

One month on, Kevin reflects on his challenge:

“Taking on the London Marathon has been an experience I’ll never forget. The energy from crowds is mesmerizing and uplifting. For a first marathon experience, it was hard to top. In memory of my time in the military, I carried an Airborne Forces flag on my backpack which generated plenty of attention! 

“I had so much support on the day from family, friends and work colleagues who were strategically moving around the course to give me mini boosts along the way – and my wife even produced a giant sausage roll for me at the halfway point, which was much needed! 

“I feel privileged to have been able to take on this challenge while raising so much for such a great cause and helping to make a difference to the future of cancer in our region. I’m so grateful to my family, friends and colleagues for all the unbelievable support I have received along the way.”

Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, said:

“Taking on the London Marathon is no small task so we are blown away by Kevin’s mammoth challenge and it’s been brilliant to see such a feat of endurance as he raises much needed funds for cancer research right here in the North West. 

“We’re extremely grateful to Kevin for his efforts and the funds raised will be a huge help when it comes to advancing our work across the region to prevent and treat cancer effectively.” 

North West Cancer Research is an independent charity dedicated to putting the region’s cancer needs first by funding life-saving research and education to tackle the cause, improve the care and find the cure for cancer.

Kevin’s JustGiving page currently stands at £7,280, 364% above his target. You can donate too on the website HERE. 

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