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I’m taking on the 2026 London Marathon for Ovacome – and I’d love your support 🏃♀️🏃♂️
In 2026, I will be running the London Marathon for Ovacome, in support of my wonderful sister-in-law Gemma.
Earlier this summer, our family was rocked by Gemma’s sudden diagnosis of stage 4 ovarian cancer, which came out of nowhere.
She is currently several months into her treatment, having undergone several rounds of chemo - and her bravery and resilience are inspiring to all who know her.
Gemma, who ironically herself is a consultant oncology surgeon, has spent her career helping others combat cancer through her work. She has helped save so many lives, and as well as being adored by her family, she is loved by so many who know her, who work alongside her, and who have been treated by her over the years.
I am proud to be embarking upon this challenge, which is one of a few fundraisers that we will be doing collectively.
For me personally, it certainly will be a challenge. You’ve heard of ‘couch to 5k’ but this really will be more like ‘fridge to marathon’, Its something that I’ve certainly never contemplated - in truth running for the bus is as close as it’s got in recent times!!
Having hit 50 this year, I will be adapting my training to build up and know my body to prepare for the big day, while also learning the art of proper hydration as a single kidney runner! But I am relishing the challenge, and hopeful that I can raise as much money as possible for this wonderful cause.
If you can please help with a sponsorship, I would so much appreciate your kind generosity and support.
Please also feel free to share this page with as many people as possible, and help to make a difference - thank you so much.
Who Are Ovacome?
In April 2026, I’ll be part of a wonderful team of runners who are running the London Marathon to raise vital funds and awareness for Ovacome, the UK’s ovarian cancer support charity.
They provide expert support, trustworthy information, and a welcoming community for anyone affected by ovarian cancer – whether you’re living with the disease, supporting someone who is, or worried about your risk. They’re a constant for many people facing the unknown, and they receive no government funding, so every donation really does make a difference.
Ovacome’s specialist support team helps those affected navigate treatment, care and life beyond the disease through the charity’s telephone support line, email, and 24-hour forum. They host online and in-person groups, workshops, and events where people affected can meet others in similar circumstances, share advice, make friends, and offer encouragement to one another in a safe environment.
If you can spare a few pounds to support my marathon challenge, you’ll be helping someone access life-changing support when they need it most. Just £28 could provide an hour of 1-1 specialist support for someone affected by ovarian cancer. £124 could cover the cost of running an in-person support group session for 12 people.
Help me make a difference. Share this page with your friends, family, colleagues, and on social media to help spread the word.
Thank you! 💙
My Achievements
Fundraising page
Updated Profile Pic
Added a Blog Post
Received 5 Donations
Reached Goal
Increased Target
My Updates
First Run!!
Wednesday 10th Sep Nice to get first run out the way! Dusted off the running app for the first time in 7 years, and did a 3 mile run in the drizzle along the seafront.Thank you to my Sponsors
£25
Kate Langley
£20
Jayesh Patel
£5
Robyn
Hi, I am Tom's cousin, good luck with the marathon I'm sure you will smash it.
£10
Lorraine Francis
£26
Kirstie Perryman
£25
Matthew T
Best of luck, Mark. For Gemma ❤️
£25
Nicola Finch
Well done Mark and for such a worthy cause. Go smash it 🏃🏻. Best of luck
£25
Perry
Good luck mate. I’ll see you out there!! Great cause. All the best
£25
Del Willis
Well done Mark! X
£20
George Rose
You got this uncle!
£10
Richard Johnson
£10
Andrew Robinson
£50
Debbie Mcdonald
Brilliant idea Mark keep us posted re the training
£10
Beck Rawlings
£5
Ursh
The very best of luck to you. You don’t know me, but I know Tom.
£10
Rachael Hayward
Good luck Mark 👏
£20
Lisa Driscoll
Well done Mark - family must be super proud of you. Such a worthy cause, with cancer affecting so many
£10
Julie Chmielewski
Thoughts are with the whole family, go smash it Mark! Sending love
£25
Claire Riden
£50
Marisa Plested
Go Mark! Hope the training goes well, very worthy cause. Thinking of Gemma and the whole family, sending you all love ❤️
£20
Barry B
Fantastic cause Mark, and hats off to Gemma for being a hell of a fighter
£100
Rob Stevenson
Good luck, great cause for an amazing person.
£20
Toby Field
Well done for raising money for such an important cause Mark. All the best to Gemma and your entire family at this difficult time. I wish you all the luck for the long training runs over the winter.
£25
Jackie Penny
Love and prayers to all the family Mark . From Jax and family.
£25
Al Dennis
£10
Denise Wooster
sending love to my dear colleague and friend Gemma, thinking of you. You are inspirational Mark.
£50
The Waineys
Good luck Mark!!!!!
£50
Laura Coleman
Well done Mark! Gemma is an inspiration and a truly wonderful person and friend x
£5
Martin Bolton
£25
Jon Burt
Very best wishes for the training, prep and the run itself. A tough challenge and a very worthy cause.
£10
Kelly B
Love to all the family x
£50
Claire Newton
Well done Mark! Agree Gemma is amazing and an inspiration to us all x
£25
Wajid Darr
Good luck mate, first challenge is to get there on time
£25
Chris Howard
Good luck Mark - hope to see you one route somewhere!
£25
James Livingstone
Good luck Mark. Running for a worthy cause.
£25
Henry Bennett
£20
Hilary Moles
Good luck with your training. I worked with Gemma in Taunton. Thinking of you all
£25
Tom Baker
Good luck Mark!
£50
Emma Wotton
I am full of admiration for you Mark, taking on a huge physical and mental challenge but for such a hugely worthwhile cause. All the best in your training and love to all the family x
£25
Keiley
Good Luck Mark . I worked with Gemma in Taunton, a very special Dr 🥰Sending love and hugs to her from all of the Labour ward Coordinators at Musgrove xx
£20
Jane And Jonny Ashworth
£5
Bb
Go Smash it 🎉
£20
Andrea
Good luck on your amazing effort to complete the marathon and raise lots of money for Ovacare. Having worked with Gemma years ago, I can imagine she is totally smashing her treatment. Lots of love to her and anyone else in this situation.
£20
Rich Shinton
£100
David And Mavis Cass
Good luck Mark it’s only 26 miles but a truly great and worthwhile cause
£10
Ollie Rose
I didnt think you could run a mile let alone 26 😂
£50
Jo Rose
So proud of you for undertaking this amazing project. 🫶 Such a worthy cause and so close to our hearts. Get training Mr Rose!! Xxx
Amazing cause, well done, Mark! I’m sure you’ll do brilliantly. We all love Gemma so much, and it’s wonderful that you’re doing this to help her and others facing this awful disease!