Two dedicated runners are preparing for the London Marathon, each committed to raising funds for charities blessed with impactful missions. Jon Addis from Tarleton and Jay Crossley from Abingdon represent the spirit of community giving as they train for the 26.2-mile race set for April 27, 2025.
Jon Addis, the joint owner of three shops across Lancashire, is striving to raise £3,000 for Children with Cancer UK. He has already made significant progress, nearing his financial goal, as he gears up for the marathon as part of his broader fundraising efforts throughout the year.
“This will be my first marathon. I enjoy a bit of exercise, but running 26.2 miles is a whole new level. It’s going to hurt, but it’s all worth it to help such an important cause,” Jon expressed with determination.
Founded back in 1988, Children with Cancer UK has emerged as the leading charity focused on childhood cancer, funding extensive research and family support services. Over the years, the charity has raised over £300 million aimed at improving treatment and enhancing the lives of affected children.
Jon's involvement is part of raising awareness about the impact of childhood cancer and the valuable work performed by the charity, and he plans to keep supporters updated on his training through social media and Strava. “Every donation, no matter the size, will help make a difference. This charity does incredible work, and I’m honored to contribute in my own way,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jay Crossley, 25, is also gearing up for the event—a cause he feels passionately about. He is running the marathon to support Parents and Children Together (PACT), which focuses on adoption services and trauma support.
“I'm running the London Marathon 2025 to support PACT because I truly believe in the work they do. Their focus on adoption services and community projects is incredible, and I wanted to be part of the mission,” Jay stated. Even though he doesn’t have personal ties to adoption services, his enthusiasm for giving back is evident.
Jay is no stranger to marathons; he has committed to multiple challenges this year alone. The upcoming London Marathon will mark his first time participating for charity, having previously run the Rome Marathon just one month prior. “Training has been going great. I’ve been steadily increasing my mileage and working hard on building my endurance. Running around the world for charity events has helped me stay motivated and focused,” he elaborated, noting his participation in the Super Six series of half marathons across several cities.
Jay is part of Team PACT, which comprises seven members running for the charity, all working to achieve the collective fundraising target of £2,000. “I’d encourage people to sponsor me because every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference for PACT. Your support helps provide these families and children with the services they need,” he emphasized.
PACT works avidly to create families through adoption, providing lifelong support and specific community projects aimed at empowering disadvantaged women to transform their lives. Their Bounce Back 4 Kids program is instrumental in helping children recover from the trauma of domestic abuse.
Both Jon and Jay’s commitments mirror the essence of the London Marathon—it’s more than just running; it’s about standing up for causes close to one’s heart and contributing to greater community well-being. Donors can support their journeys through online fundraising pages, where every contribution counts toward making positive changes.
Jon's marathon page is available at www.bit.ly/jonsfirstmarathon, allowing supporters to follow his training and contribute to his fundraising goals for Children with Cancer UK. The sense of urgency and emotional weight behind their stories serves to inspire others to get involved and support these noble causes.
With just months to go until the marathon, both runners are not just pushing their physical limits but also rallying support for charities making meaningful differences. The London Marathon, traditionally seen as not just an athletic endeavor but also as a platform for charitable fundraising, truly highlights the power of community and the impact of collective action.
Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or donating to the cause, every little bit helps to make the world more supportive for those who need it most. So, let’s rally behind these inspiring individuals and their incredible journeys!