Have you ever wondered how far one person can go for a cause they truly believe in? For John, a teacher, opera singer and actor, the answer was: six endurance events in just one month.

Between 6th April and 5th May 2025, John took on an epic journey running three marathons, two ultra-marathons, and completing a triathlon all to raise funds for Helen & Douglas House. His incredible challenge raised £5,500, smashing his original target of £4,000. This could fund an outreach specialist nurse for one month to offer a family support at home at the end of a child’s life.

A tribute with every step

John’s motivation? A deeply personal one. He ran in memory of Hemming, the nine-year-old son of two close friends, who died from an aggressive brain tumour in October 2023. Helen & Douglas House cared for Hemming during his final days, and John wanted to give back in the most meaningful way he could. John said:

“Hemming was an absolutely wonderful little boy. I knew Hemming because he joined us every year when we sang opera on tour. For the London Marathon I dressed as Spider-Man, in honour of Hemming’s favourite superhero which was brilliant because the crowd loves cheering for Spider-Man. But it was also challenging because it was so hot.”

John’s marathon month included:

• Brighton Marathon
• Paris Marathon
• Enigma Ultra Marathon 50K (Milton Keynes)
• Radley Triathlon
• London Marathon (as Spider-Man)
• Winchester Ultra Marathon 50K

Feeling inspired?

If John’s story moves you, consider this your sign: take on the 2026 London or Paris Marathon for Helen & Douglas House.

You don’t need to run six events (unless you want to!). Just one race, one goal, one story can make all the difference — for you, and for the people you run for.